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
This term translates to 'immortal operation' and refers to extraordinary skills or talents, especially in gaming or sports. It denotes actions that are exceptionally impressive or seemingly beyond the ordinary.
His skills are truly exceptional; they leave people in awe.
Meaning 'soul', this term is often used to refer to someone who is deeply expressive or holds profound insights. It’s often used in artistic or philosophical discussions.
This painting has a profound soul, prompting reflection.
Translating to 'explode in popularity', this term describes a sudden surge in fame or attention, often used to refer to viral trends or individuals.
This blogger has exploded in popularity recently; everyone is paying attention to her.
This term means 'light' or 'mild,' and it can refer to food that is not too rich or heavy. It's often used in culinary contexts to describe a preference for healthier or simpler dishes.
In summer, I prefer to eat lighter dishes.
This term means 'buyer show' and refers to the photos or reviews that customers post after purchasing a product, often showcasing their satisfaction or disappointment. It's a popular way to share experiences in online...
I've seen many buyer reviews, and it seems like this product is good.
Literally 'fake cigarettes', this term is often used to describe counterfeit or subpar products, especially in a humorous context. It can refer to anything that is not genuine or authentic.
The quality of this clothing is really subpar.
Translating to 'Peace Elite', this is a popular battle royale game in China. The term often symbolizes strategy and teamwork in gaming culture and is associated with competitive gaming events.
I played Peace Elite with my friends the day before yesterday; it was really fun.
Translates to 'emerging from the void,' it conveys a sense of something or someone appearing dramatically or unexpectedly. It's often used to highlight something impressive or groundbreaking.
This new product emerged dramatically; it has revolutionized the market.
Translating to 'to open the door and see the mountain,' this idiom means to get straight to the point. It reflects a preference for clear, direct communication.
Let's get straight to the point and discuss the collaboration.
This term refers to 'mukbang', a trend involving hosts eating large quantities of food while interacting with an audience, popular on live streaming platforms.
I love watching mukbangs; I find it interesting to see others eat.
This term means 'reasoning' and is often used in contexts involving solving puzzles or mysteries, particularly in games or detective stories. It highlights the analytical aspect of thinking.
The reasoning in this drama is amazing; I couldn't guess the ending at all.
Meaning 'to show one's face,' this term is used to describe making an appearance, often in a social or public context. It's commonly used by influencers or content creators when referring to revealing their identity.
Today I’m going to show my face and film a video.
This term translates to 'big shot' or 'boss' and is used to refer to someone who is highly skilled or influential in a certain field. It conveys respect and admiration for their accomplishments.
He's truly a big shot in this industry; everyone respects him.
Translating to 'two-dimensional,' this term refers to anime and manga culture. It represents a fan base that deeply engages with fictional characters and stories.
He is an anime fan, watching cartoons every day.
Translating to 'departing from the path', this term describes someone who goes against traditional norms or expectations, often in a rebellious or innovative way. It reflects a shift in cultural values.
He always departs from the norm, and his style of doing things is unique.
Translating to 'big brain opening,' this term describes thinking outside the box or coming up with creative and unusual ideas. It signifies a burst of imaginative thought.
His ideas are truly creative and refreshing.
Translating to 'mass production,' this term describes the phenomenon of generating content quickly and frequently, often without much depth or quality. It critiques the oversaturation of low-quality media.
Many videos on platforms now are mass-produced and lack creativity.
This term refers to the practice of 'anti-recommendation'—essentially warning friends against something instead of promoting it. It often indicates a critical view on something that seems overrated.
I would anti-recommend this movie; it’s really not good.
Meaning 'aesthetic value', this term refers to someone's appearance or attractiveness. It’s often discussed in the context of social media influencers or public figures.
This model's aesthetic value is so high, everyone is following her.
Meaning 'fresh and unique', this term describes something that is refreshing and stands out from the ordinary. It's often used in artistic contexts but can apply to any new and exciting ideas.
His design style is fresh and unique, making it instantly appealing.
Literally 'technology homebody,' this term describes someone who is very much into technology, often at the expense of socializing. It reflects a fascination with gadgets, gaming, and online communities.
He's a tech homebody, almost playing every newly released game daily.
Meaning 'variety show star', this term refers to celebrities or personalities who are especially known for their appearances on entertainment shows. It reflects the blurring lines between traditional celebrity and soc...
He became popular through variety shows, and his fans really like him.
To protect and guard — used as both a verb and a hashtag for content about protecting vulnerable things: animals, children, nature, traditions. Became a popular caption alongside rescue videos after 雪山救狐狸 circulated w...
We must protect every life, no matter how big or small.
This term refers to a specific genre of content on Douyin that is humorous or absurd, often involving remixing videos and sounds in a playful, exaggerated manner. It highlights creativity and humor in short video form...
These Douyin 'ghost crop' videos are really hilarious!
Martial arts secret manual — in wuxia, the ultimate treasure containing hidden techniques that can make someone invincible. Online, used humorously for any helpful guide, lifehack, cheat sheet, or insider tip that unl...
This guide is basically a secret martial arts manual — I am no longer afraid of the boss fight.
This term means 'to choose sides or teams', especially in debates or discussions. It reflects aligning oneself with a particular viewpoint or group.
On this topic, everyone is starting to choose sides.
Meaning 'beast world', this term refers to a genre in fiction where animal traits or characteristics dominate. It's often associated with fantasy literature and fandom.
She is reading a novel about the 'beast world', and the story is captivating.
Translating to 'grand entrance,' this phrase is often used humorously to announce someone coming onto a scene dramatically or in a way that catches attention, suggesting a fun buildup.
He made a grand entrance, and everyone applauded for him.
This term means 'to establish one’s territory', often used by social media influencers who define their niche or audience. It can signify both positive branding or negative exclusivity.
She is establishing her territory in the fashion industry more firmly.
Short for 'Animal Crossing,' this term is used to refer to the popular game that emphasizes relaxation and community building. Players often share their in-game experiences and creative designs on various social media...
I’ve been playing Animal Crossing recently, and it feels so relaxing.
Meaning 'verification,' this term is commonly used in online contexts where users get validated or certified, especially in social media platforms to indicate authenticity.
He just got verified, and his fans are all very excited.
Rug pull / Run away - When project founders disappear with investors money.
The project team did a rug pull, all the money is gone.
Literally 'seeking help,' this term is often used in online forums or social media when someone is looking for advice or assistance. It reflects a communal aspect of problem-solving.
Can anyone help me solve this problem? Seeking help!
Literally 'Street of Soul Guardians', this term refers to a popular online comic and anime series. It's also used metaphorically in discussions about themes of protection and loyalty among friends.
In the story of Soul Guardians Street, the power of friendship is incredibly important.
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.
Literally meaning 'to draw a sword,' this slang is used to indicate someone is prepared to defend their opinions or engage in a verbal battle, often in online debates. It reflects the combative nature of discussions i...
I can't help but draw my sword when I encounter keyboard warriors.
Translating to 'nine段', this term is used in games to indicate a very high skill level, based on the traditional ranking in Go.
His gaming skills have reached nine段; he’s truly a master.
Literally meaning 'daughter's rice,' this term refers to fans who are particularly devoted to female idols in the entertainment industry. It reflects the culture around fandom and idol worship.
She is a devoted fan of female idols, following their updates every day.
Translating to 'virtual idol,' this term refers to digitally created characters or avatars that perform music or entertainment, largely appealing to younger audiences. They often have dedicated fanbases similar to rea...
She is my favorite virtual idol; I listen to every new song she releases.
Literally meaning 'appetizer,' this term is used in a metaphorical sense to describe something that stimulates interest or curiosity before the main event, such as trailers for movies or introductory remarks.
This video is like an appetizer, making me look forward to the rest of the content.
Translating to 'a relaxed moment,' this phrase is used to refer to funny or lighthearted content meant to provide laughter and relieve stress. It’s commonly found in social media posts and videos.
This video was truly a relaxed moment; it made me laugh.
Translating to 'apology culture', this term refers to the phenomenon where people frequently apologize to avoid conflict, often seen in social media interactions.
The apology culture of today’s society feels somewhat hypocritical.
Translating to '腐 culture' (with '腐' representing '腐乳' or '腐烂'), this term describes subcultures that celebrate same-sex love, especially in the context of male relationships, often in forms of fan fiction, art, and m...
She is a '腐' culture enthusiast who loves to read fan works.
This term means 'pop culture' and encompasses the trends, music, fashion, and entertainment that are popular at any given time. It's a way to discuss the cultural zeitgeist among the youth.
Pop culture influences our way of life.
While this term literally refers to the popular video-sharing platform, it represents the broader culture of video consumption and content creation that has influenced Chinese social media, reflecting global connectiv...
Many people enjoy posting creative videos on YouTube.
A term combining 'work' and 'alcoholic', used to describe someone who is addicted to work and often prioritizes it over personal life. It reflects cultural attitudes toward hard work and dedication.
He is a typical workaholic, always working overtime.
Literally meaning 'medicine water', this term is used humorously to refer to overly sweet or exaggerated content that is designed to appeal emotionally, often seen in films and advertisements.
The plot of the movie was really exaggerated; it felt like medicine water.
This term means 'momentum' or 'popularity' and is used to describe someone's rising status or trendiness in social or professional settings. It denotes being in the spotlight.
He has been very popular lately; everyone is paying attention to him.
Burst out laughing — the explosive, uncontrollable laughter associated with Stephen Chow's comedic style. Used as both a reaction word in comments and as an adjective to describe content that is hilariously funny at a...
I burst out laughing every time I watch this clip — Master Xing is truly a genius.
Translating to 'netizen', this term refers to internet users who actively participate in online communities. It reflects the growing influence of online platforms and social media on public discourse and culture.
This issue has sparked discussion among a wide range of netizens.