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 'stylish translation,' this term humorously refers to creative or exaggerated translations that often diverge from the original meaning. It's often used to comment on poorly done translations in media.
The creative translations in these subtitles are truly laughable.
Translating to 'super energetic', this term conveys excitement and enthusiasm about something. It reflects positive feelings about experiences, events, or trends.
This song is super energetic; it makes me want to dance.
Translating to 'laser eyes,' this term describes a focused and intense gaze, often used humorously to indicate someone is staring intensely, usually at something they want or desire. It expresses excitement or determi...
He’s staring intensely at that new phone; it’s obvious he likes it a lot.
Translating to 'truth', this term is often used in discussions surrounding uncovering facts or realities, particularly in relation to scandals or rumors. It conveys the pursuit of deeper understanding in a situation.
Everyone is guessing; what is the truth?
Meaning 'god-level,' this term describes something of extraordinarily high quality or skill, often used in gaming and entertainment.
Your performance is truly god-level; I was completely captivated.
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 translates to 'crazy killer,' used to describe someone who is extremely enthusiastic or excitable about something, often in the context of gaming or sports.
He's gone crazy in the game; it’s unbelievable.
Internet celebrity fatigue describes the feeling of being overwhelmed or tired of the constant influx of internet celebrities. This term reflects a growing sentiment among web users who feel saturated with influencers...
Recently, I've been feeling a bit of internet celebrity fatigue and don't want to watch those influencers' videos anymore.
Noob chicken - A bad or inexperienced player.
I am a noob, do not curse at me.
Literally means 'brainwashing song.' This term describes a catchy song or tune that gets stuck in your head, regardless of whether you like it or not. It often describes viral songs that become popular in short spans.
This song is really a brainwashing song; once I hear it, I can't stop.
Meaning 'fervor' or 'enthusiasm,' this term is often used to describe extreme excitement or passion for a trend, topic, or fandom. It can have both positive and negative connotations.
The fervor for this movie shocked me.
Bear market - A declining market where prices are falling.
In a bear market learn patience, do not panic sell.
Translating to 'the trend of the times', this phrase describes phenomena that are becoming increasingly popular or inevitable. It reflects social, economic, or political trends that people are adapting to.
In the wave of technological development, smart homes have become the trend of the times.
Literally 'programming dream', it refers to the aspirations of tech enthusiasts and programmers who dream of creating innovative software or games. It showcases the ambition within the tech community.
He has a programming dream of developing an app that could change the world.
Literally meaning 'participant' or 'candidate,' this term is often used in competitive contexts, such as gaming or talent shows, to emphasize skill and prowess among individuals.
In this competition, she is one of the strongest participants.
Translating to 'little show,' this term refers to small, informal performances or activities, often done for fun or entertainment. It's used to suggest light-heartedness and creativity.
Tonight, we have prepared a little show for everyone.
Referring to 'Douyin lilies', this term is associated with the coupling of unexpected or quirky pairs, often seen in humorous content on Douyin. It emphasizes the fun of unusual pairings.
This combination is just like Douyin lilies; it's so interesting!
Means 'to follow the flow,' used to describe someone who conforms to popular trends or practices without critical thought. It sometimes carries a negative connotation of lack of originality.
I don't want to just follow the flow; I want to do what I like.
Translating to 'script,' this term is used in gaming and online culture to refer to pre-written strategies or actions, often used in discussions of online games. It indicates a planned approach to gameplay.
The use of scripts is very common in this game.
Literally meaning 'colored egg,' this term refers to hidden surprises or Easter eggs in media, such as movies, games, or events. It often adds an element of excitement to the experience.
This movie has a lot of hidden surprises; it's worth watching.
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.
Translating to 'drama-chasing fanatic', this term refers to someone who binge-watches dramas obsessively. It captures the enthusiasm of viewers who keep up with popular series and discuss them passionately on social m...
She is such a drama-chasing fanatic; she has to watch several episodes every night.
Literally 'chips girl', this term describes a girl who is casual and carefree, often eating snacks like potato chips. It is used in social media to depict a fun, laid-back attitude, often in a humorous way.
She is just a chips girl, always enjoying life under the sun.
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.
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.
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 'hot memes', this term refers to trending or popular memes circulating on social media, often reflecting current events or pop culture.
This hot meme is really interesting; I've seen it several times in my friend circle.
Meaning 'Little Ma Yun,' this term is used to refer to a young person who shows exceptional talent or potential, particularly in business or technology, often likening them to the famous entrepreneur Jack Ma.
He’s really a little Ma Yun; he started his own company at 17.
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.
Meaning 'paranoid' or 'obsessive', this term refers to an extreme focus or fixation on something, often used in fandom contexts. It indicates a passionate but sometimes unhealthy level of devotion.
His obsession with this celebrity makes me a bit worried.
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.
This term means 'bystanders' or 'onlookers' and is often used to refer to people who are watching a situation unfold, typically in a humorous or ironic sense.
The onlookers are waiting to see who will speak first.
Translating to 'fantastic' or 'awesome,' this colloquial expression conveys strong admiration or appreciation for something remarkable. It’s often used in exclamatory contexts.
Your performance was awesome; I truly admire you!
This term means 'cloud raising dogs', referring to people who do not own pets but enjoy following and watching pet accounts online. It captures the essence of digital pet ownership through social media, where people f...
Although I don't have a dog, I enjoy cloud raising dogs by watching pet videos every day.
This term means 'first of all,' used frequently in discussions to emphasize the priority of certain points, especially in arguments or detailed explanations.
First of all, I think this plan is not feasible.
Literally 'small black room', this term refers to a temporary ban or punishment in online communities. It humorously implies being put in a 'timeout' for misbehavior.
He was put in the timeout for inappropriate comments.
Translating to 'the entire internet,' this term is used to emphasize that something is widely known or discussed across various online platforms.
This issue is being widely discussed across the entire internet.
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.
Decentralization - The core philosophy of blockchain, removing central authority.
Decentralization is the core concept of blockchain.
This term means 'social media' and is used to describe various online platforms where users interact, share content, and build communities. It reflects the modern way people connect and communicate in the digital age.
Social media has changed the way we communicate.
Translating to 'speak carefully,' this term advises caution in conversations, especially regarding sensitive topics. It emphasizes the importance of choosing words wisely.
Everyone should speak carefully when discussing this issue.
Translating to 'fashion dog', this term describes someone who is obsessed with fashion and trends, often trying to keep up with the latest styles.
She's definitely a fashionista, always at the forefront of trends.
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.
Literally translates to 'water things,' it describes spreading rumors or gossip that lacks substance. It’s often used to call out baseless claims.
The rumors you've heard are completely unreliable.
Translates to 'desktop literature,' referring to short, easily digestible content like memes or quotes shared on social media. It represents the trend of quick consumption of information.
This kind of desktop literature is really interesting, it makes me laugh out loud.
Borrowed from English, this term refers to the colorful icons used in digital communication to express emotions or reactions. They're widely utilized in chat apps and social media for more dynamic interaction.
Using emojis makes chatting more vivid and interesting.
Meaning 'self-take,' this term refers to selfies or self-portraits shared on social media platforms. It's a popular way for individuals to share moments and express their identity.
I want to try different styles of selfies today.
This expression means 'peaks and valleys', often used to describe a thrilling or dramatic situation that has many ups and downs, like a rollercoaster of emotions or events. It conveys excitement and constant change.
This show has 'peaks and valleys' in its plot, making it hard to stop watching.
Translating to 'cloud cat-adoring', this term describes the act of enjoying or adoring cats online, often through social media. It reflects a growing trend of virtual pet ownership and appreciation.
Recently, I've been adoring cats online every day, and I feel particularly happy.
Refers to a significant historical incident in Chinese history, but in internet slang, it has come to symbolize unexpected twists or turns in events, often used humorously.
The result of this match was really an unexpected twist!