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
Translating to 'carnival,' this term is used to describe wild, festive parties or celebrations that are marked by unrestrained fun and enthusiasm. It's common in social media discussions about nightlife or events.
There's a carnival this weekend; everyone come join!
Translating to 'little maiden', this term is often used to describe girls who exhibit cute or innocent traits, often associated with a love for anime and pop culture. It evokes a sense of youthful charm and playfulness.
She's such a little maiden, always loving those loli-style clothes.
This phrase means 'to overturn one's worldview.' It's used to express surprise or disbelief when events contradict common beliefs or expectations, often seen in dramatic life situations.
The plot of this show really overturned my worldview; I was shocked.
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.
Translating to 'little explosion', this slang refers to unexpected excitement or surprise, often used in the context of fun or thrilling moments online.
This video is so interesting; it’s simply a little explosion!
Miner - Someone who mines cryptocurrency.
Miners are all looking for places with cheap electricity.
This phrase means 'I laughed so hard I could die', used to express amusement at something very funny. It has become common on social media and messaging platforms to show strong reactions to humorous content.
The video you sent me made me laugh so hard I could die!
Translating to 'fake foreign devil', this term refers to someone who pretends to be foreign or adopts foreign culture superficially, often for social status. It can carry a derogatory connotation when critiquing such ...
He always speaks English, what a fake foreign devil.
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 '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.
Translating to 'main theme', this term refers to the dominant narrative or trend in society, often used in political or cultural discussions. It highlights the prevailing ideas or sentiments shaping public opinion.
The current main theme in society is calling for more inclusivity and understanding.
Translating to 'one breath,' this term describes doing something in one go or a continuous effort without stopping. It’s often used to express endurance or determination.
I watched this series in one go; it was so good!
Translating to 'style of drawing', this term is used in internet culture to describe the tone or style of content, especially memes or illustrations. It's often used to comment on how the visual style affects the over...
The style of this image is very funny!
Translating to 'emotional management,' this term refers to the practice of managing one's emotions effectively, especially in stressful situations. It has gained importance in discussions about mental health.
Emotional management is very important in the workplace.
Literally meaning 'explosive,' this term is used to describe something extremely popular, often trending or in high demand. It indicates that something is hot in terms of popularity.
This product is currently explosively popular online.
Literally means 'to tan,' used to refer to someone getting darker due to sun exposure. It can also signify someone who enjoys showing off their summer adventures or leisure activities online.
I got tanned this summer, really happy about it.
Literally meaning 'big move,' this term is primarily used in gaming to refer to a powerful skill or ability that can turn the tide of a battle. It's also used metaphorically in other contexts to describe a significant...
He used a big move in the match and turned the situation around.
Literally means 'rocket launch'. It refers to a situation that escalates quickly or an event that becomes very popular in a short amount of time.
His short video launched like a rocket and became popular overnight.
This phrase means 'to join in the fun' or 'to make a scene' and is often used when people participate in social events or trends just for the excitement, rather than having a specific goal.
They are just joining in for the fun; they don’t care about the essence of the matter.
Translating to 'the number one in the universe,' this term is often exaggeratedly used to describe something or someone that is exceptional or unmatched. It shows enthusiasm and admiration.
This outfit is truly the best in the universe!
'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.
Listen to me, thank you — a viral song phrase used sarcastically or to hype someone up
Listen — thank you, you worked so hard today!
Literally 'chasing traffic,' this slang refers to creating content aimed at maximizing views or engagement, often sacrificing depth for popularity.
Many content creators are now chasing traffic, leading to a decline in content quality.
Moving China — originally the name of CCTV's annual awards for the most inspiring people of the year. Now used both sincerely to describe something truly moving, and ironically when something is overdramatized or perf...
The Snow Mountain Fox Rescue story truly deserves to be called Moving China.
This phrase translates to 'jobless rebirth', originating from popular anime and light novels. It refers to a fantasy of starting life anew, often in a different world or situation, particularly appealing to those drea...
I really wish I could be reborn jobless to a better place.
Bull market - A rising market where prices are going up.
The bull market is here, everyone is making money.
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.
Fan Support / Fan Rally
The fans rallied through the night and finally pushed their idol past the kill line!
This phrase means 'to gain followers', often used in the context of social media where users seek to increase their follower count. It reflects the importance of online presence and popularity in today's digital lands...
My recent livestream has attracted many people; I'm clearly gaining followers.
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 'water army', this term refers to internet users hired to post positive comments or support a specific agenda or product. It's often used in discussions about online marketing and authenticity.
This comment has the suspicion of being from a water army.
This term combines 'Twitter' and 'Douyin' to describe a situation where content goes viral across different social media platforms, especially overlapping trends. It's indicative of the interconnected nature of contem...
This challenge has gone viral on both Twitter and Douyin.
Meaning 'tug of war', this term is used metaphorically to describe a situation where two parties are in intense competition or conflict over something.
The competition between these two companies is like a tug of war.
Translates to 'combat ethnic group', this phrase refers to people who are perceived as fiercely competitive or resilient, often used humorously to describe oneself or friends during challenges.
In this competition, we will showcase the spirit of combat ethnic group.
Referring to a popular pairing of characters in a fandom, often seen in fan communities. It indicates a strong interest in a specific couple or relationship, typically in dramas or animations.
I really love the couple in this show; they're so sweet!
This term means 'to hatch eggs' and is used metaphorically to describe the process of nurturing an idea or project until it's ready to be revealed. It indicates careful development.
We’ve been nurturing this project for quite a while!
Literally 'burying a hint,' this term is used to describe the practice of leaving subtle clues or references, often in content creation or storytelling. It encourages audience engagement and speculation.
She left many hints in the video, and everyone is discussing them.
Translating to 'diving,' this term means to lurk or observe in online communities without participating or commenting. It reflects a low-profile approach to social media.
I lurk in the forum, just watching and not speaking.
Translating to 'virtual person', this term is used to describe digital characters or avatars, especially in gaming and online communities. It emphasizes the blending of real and virtual identities in digital spaces.
In the game, I have a virtual person that represents my image.
Translating to 'burning', this term is used to describe something exciting or inspiring, often related to motivation or passion. It encapsulates the feeling of exhilaration and enthusiasm.
This movie is so inspiring; it filled me with determination.
This is a playful sound that mimics a sheep's bleat and is often used at the end of sentences to add a cute or soft tone. It can express uncertainty or cuteness.
The weather is really nice today, baa~
Meaning 'to suddenly become popular', this term describes something or someone who quickly gains fame or recognition, often through social media or online platforms.
This product suddenly became popular; everyone is rushing to buy it.
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.
Young Mistress - elevated title now widely used in customer service
Young Mistress, your bubble tea is ready for pickup.
This slang is used to denote being 'cool' or 'awesome'. It sounds like the Chinese words for 'smooth' and is often used to compliment someone's style.
Your new hairstyle is really cool!
Literally meaning 'squatting at a spot', this term describes the practice of waiting for something to happen, such as a product release or an event drop. It's akin to being on high alert for something exciting.
I'm online squatting to wait for the release of the new phone.
Literally meaning 'to open black,' this term is used in gaming to describe playing together with friends, often in a competitive or strategic manner. It's primarily used in multiplayer gaming contexts.
We plan to play together this weekend and have some gaming fun.
Meaning 'surrounding areas' or 'peripherals,' this term is often used to refer to merchandise or products related to a particular fandom or interest.
The merchandise related to this game is very popular.
This phrase means 'to step out of one’s comfort zone' and is frequently used to encourage individuals to take risks and face challenges. It embodies the idea of personal growth through discomfort.
To improve myself, I’ve decided to step out of my comfort zone and try new things.
This term translates to 'girly boy' and is used to refer to men who exhibit traits traditionally associated with femininity. While it can be used derogatorily, it has also been reclaimed by some who embrace a more flu...
He likes to wear makeup; everyone calls him a girly boy.