This section of the Chinese Slang Dictionary focuses on Internet Culture slang. Each entry includes the Chinese characters (汉字), pinyin pronunciation with tone marks, an English translation, at least one example sentence showing real usage, and cultural context explaining where the term comes from and how it is used. Terms are sorted by community popularity. Browse the full list below or use the search bar to find a specific term.
Internet Culture Slang Terms
Referring to a 'fan circle,' this term describes the community of fans surrounding a celebrity or fandom. It often involves intense loyalty and interactions among members.
She joined her idol's fan circle, binge-watching dramas and voting.
Meaning 'sense of technology,' this slang is used to describe something that feels modern and has a high-tech appeal. It's often used in discussions about design, fashion, or apps that leverage advanced technology.
This phone has a strong sense of technology; the picture quality is super clear.
This phrase means 'endless surprises,' used to describe situations that are full of unexpected delights. It conveys excitement and positive anticipation.
This event is full of surprises; there’s something new every time.
This term means 'to enlighten or educate,' often used in contexts where information is shared to clear up misunderstandings. It's akin to giving a crash course on a topic.
Let me enlighten you on this hot topic.
Translating to 'internet spirit', this phrase refers to the culture of sharing, openness, and innovation characterizing the internet age. It embodies the ethos of connectivity and collaboration.
We should promote the internet spirit and create the future together.
This term means 'so many people' and is often used to express surprise at the number of participants or audience members in an event, typically in an exaggerated context.
So many people are attending this event!
Translating to 'short video powerhouse,' this term acknowledges China's rapid rise as a leading platform for short video content, reflecting on how the country has embraced and popularized platforms like Douyin and Ku...
China has become a short video powerhouse, with many creators shining here.
Literally meaning 'melon skin', this term is used to describe someone who is silly or foolish, often in a lighthearted manner. It can also refer to absurd situations or comments, similar to calling someone a 'goofball'.
He's such a goofball; he actually believes that rumor.
Translating to 'short but powerful,' this term describes something concise yet impactful, often used for comments or content that delivers strong messages in few words.
His speech was short but powerful, leaving a deep impression.
This term refers to a binge-watching style where someone gets so engrossed in a series that they become 'paralyzed' and can't do anything else. It humorously highlights how addictive and consuming watching dramas can be.
This drama is so good; I binge-watched it all night until 6 AM.
Translating to 'too fragrant,' this term is often used metaphorically to describe something that is extremely appealing or attractive, whether it’s food, a person, or an idea.
This new game is so appealing; I can’t wait to play!
Translating to 'increase knowledge,' this term is used to describe a situation where someone learns something new and interesting, often in an enlightening or surprising context. It's a positive expression of growth o...
Reading this article really increased my knowledge; I learned a lot of new things.
Translates to 'popcorn,' used in online chats to indicate being entertained or watching a dramatic situation unfold. It suggests someone is enjoying the 'show' of events happening.
This TV drama is so good; it's totally a popcorn-watching pace!
This phrase means 'brain hole opened,' and is used to describe a moment of creativity or a wild idea. It’s often used in artistic or imaginative discussions.
This idea really opened up my mind.
'Little blue man' refers to a user on social media who shares absurd or humorous opinions. It’s often used to describe meme creators.
The jokes from this little blue man are so funny that I couldn't help but laugh out loud.
Translating to 'various styles of marketing', this term refers to innovative and creative marketing techniques that engage audiences in entertaining ways. It reflects the need for originality in a crowded market.
There are more and more brands using various styles of marketing now; it’s really interesting.
Literally meaning 'one wave, three folds,' this phrase describes a situation or story that has many twists and turns. It is used to convey the complexity of events, especially in narratives or dramas.
This movie really had many twists; I didn't expect the ending to be like that.
Literally means 'to play King of Glory,' a popular mobile game in China. This slang term is used to describe someone who is addicted to gaming, often to the point of neglecting responsibilities.
He plays King of Glory every day and doesn't even do his homework.
Meaning 'brushing followers,' this term is slang for gaining followers artificially through means like buying followers or using aggressive marketing tactics. It implies a lack of authenticity.
This account increases its influence by brushing followers.
Referring to the 'knife circle', this slang is used for fans or enthusiasts of extreme sports or activities that involve danger. It often encompasses a community that enjoys chatting about their favorite risky hobbies.
After joining the knife circle, I met many like-minded friends.
Translating to 'worship of happiness', this term denotes a culture or mindset that prioritizes positivity, cheerfulness, and personal happiness above all else. It often critiques superficial positivity that neglects d...
In this society of happiness worship, many people dare not express negative emotions.
Badass / amazing / f***ing awesome — abbreviation of 牛逼 (niú bī), literally "cow vagina" but used exclusively to mean incredibly impressive, powerful, or cool. One of the most common Chinese slang compliments.
That move is absolutely NB (badass)!
Translating to 'melon crowd', this term refers to people who are interested in gossip or drama but are not directly involved, akin to spectators.
This debate attracted a lot of melon crowd.
Translating to 'hundred thousand whys,' this term is used humorously to express curiosity or endless questions about a topic. It's often associated with younger audiences and their inquisitive nature.
I have a hundred thousand questions about this topic.
Meaning 'lively' or 'agile', this term is used to describe someone or something that is dynamic, energetic, or charmingly animated. It’s often used in performance or artistic contexts to celebrate expression.
This dance performance is really lively and captivates the audience.
This phrase means 'narrowly defined real fragrance' and is used humorously to express unexpected appreciation for something initially dismissed. It indicates a change of heart towards something that turns out to be en...
I’ve started to feel that this song is really nice; it’s unexpectedly enjoyable!
Often refers to young, fervent nationalists who express strong patriotic views online. Originally neutral, it sometimes carries a negative connotation when describing overly aggressive or extreme supporters.
Those little pinks are always arguing online, defending their views.
Translating to 'unpacking gifts', this term is popularly used in the context of reactions to content creators opening gifts or products on live streams or videos. It reflects a trend where audiences enjoy the anticipa...
This streamer's unpacking gift videos are so interesting; everyone is waiting for her reviews.
Translating to 'traffic small star', this term refers to a rising celebrity or influencer with significant online presence but not yet extensive recognition. It often highlights their potential for growth.
She is a traffic small star; she will definitely become popular in the future.
Translating to 'angrily retort', this slang is used to describe someone who fiercely critiques or confronts another person. It's often used in the context of online debates or arguments.
She angrily retorted to those trolls in the comment section.
Far ahead of the competition; leagues ahead
The new Huawei phone is leagues ahead of the competition!
This term is akin to saying 'so-and-so' or 'someone' and is used to refer to unnamed people or things. It often appears in discussions when the actual names or specifics are not relevant or known.
So-and-so said today’s meeting has been canceled.
This is the onomatopoeic representation of laughter in Chinese and is often used in digital communication. It indicates amusement or humor, similar to 'lol' in English.
What you said is so funny, I can't help but laugh out loud.
Translating to 'water post,' this term refers to low-quality or meaningless posts on forums or social media, often intended to fill space rather than provide valuable content. It's a critique of poor engagement.
I don’t want to post meaningless content; let’s write something with depth.
This term refers to 'emoji memes', which are memes that use emojis to convey humor or express feelings. It highlights how emojis have become integral in modern communication.
I like to use emoji memes to express my feelings.
Means 'to barge in', commonly used in online discussions and memes to refer to someone unexpectedly entering a conversation or scene, often leading to humorous outcomes.
The cat barged in during this video; I laughed so hard!
Referring to the phenomenon of being overly accommodating or pleasing to 'homebodies' or fans, often in online communities. It implies creating content that caters to niche preferences.
The content of these videos is really catering to homebodies; it perfectly matches my taste.
This literally means 'seafood', but in internet slang, it's used to describe someone who is 'fresh' or 'new', often in a humorous or mocking way.
His performance today was really fresh.
Meaning 'unclear meaning', this term is often used in discussions about memes or posts that are confusing or nonsensical. It can describe a lack of clarity in intentions or messages.
The meaning of this picture is unclear, leaving people puzzled.
Meaning 'silent mode,' this term is used to describe instances when someone chooses not to engage in conversations, often on social media. It highlights a trend of 'ghosting' or avoiding communication in a digital con...
I’ve been in silent mode for a while, without wanting to chat with others.
This number has become a popular euphemism for 'Qing Dynasty,' often used in discussions about historical context or heritage. It signifies a deeper connection to Chinese traditional history.
He's very interested in Qing Dynasty history, always studying relevant materials.
Translating to 'fervent fan', this term describes someone who is intensely passionate about a celebrity, band, or show, often participating in fandom activities. It emphasizes the enthusiasm within fan cultures.
She’s a fervent fan of that drama and discusses the plot almost every day.
Translating to 'black technology', this term refers to advanced, often innovative technologies that seem to defy conventional understanding. It’s used to describe cutting-edge trends, particularly in tech discussions.
The features of this phone are truly black technology.
Translating to 'frequently disconnecting,' this phrase is often used to describe unreliable internet connections or distractions in discussions. It humorously reflects frustration with technology.
I've been frequently disconnecting today; I'm so frustrated.
Translating to 'substitute', this term describes a situation where someone steps in for another person, often used when discussing work or social responsibilities.
I can substitute for you in this meeting.
Literally 'instant removal', this term refers to the quick disappearance of a post or comment from social media. It is frequently used when someone regrets posting something and deletes it shortly after, especially in...
The post she just made was removed instantly; it seems she regretted it.
Translating to 'top trending topics across the internet,' this term is used to describe something that has gained widespread attention online. It often refers to news or events that capture the collective interest.
This topic has recently become a top trending search across the internet.
Translating to 'varied brainwashing', this term is used metaphorically to describe methods of persuasion that are overly repetitive or creative. It often relates to how advertisers or influencers try to convince people.
This ad is truly varied brainwashing; after hearing it once, I want to buy it.
This phrase means 'to chase the plot,' referring to the act of following a series or drama closely, often binge-watching episodes. It's commonly used among fans of series.
I've been chasing a new drama lately; it's so good!
Translating to 'invincible in the human world', this term is used to describe something or someone that is exceptionally impressive or unbeatable in a fun way. It often appears in competitive contexts or comebacks.
This movie is truly invincible in the human world!