This is the complete browsable index of our Chinese Slang Dictionary — 3800+ verified internet slang terms used on platforms like Weibo, Bilibili, Douyin, and Xiaohongshu. Every entry includes the Chinese characters (汉字), pinyin with tone marks, an English translation, at least one example sentence in authentic Chinese, and a cultural note explaining where the term comes from and how it is really used. Terms are ranked by community votes, so the most useful and widely used terms appear first. New slang is added daily from trending Chinese social media. Looking for a specific term? Use the search bar at the top of the page.
Chinese Slang Terms, Sorted by Popularity
Literally meaning 'plate', in slang it refers to an individual or group that is the target of criticism or gossip, similar to being 'on a chopping block'. It’s often used in discussions about public figures.
This celebrity has recently become the target of everyone’s criticism; many people are talking about him.
Gold farming / Play to earn - Making money by playing blockchain games.
He earns thousands per month gold farming.
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 term translates to 'assist' and is frequently used in gaming or sports contexts to describe someone who helps another achieve success, particularly in scoring. It can also be used metaphorically in social situati...
She assisted me in this match, helping me win.
Literally translating to 'strongly supporting', this term refers to advocating or promoting something, often excessively or in an over-the-top manner. It’s commonly used in discussions about influencers or celebrities.
Even though the drama is not good, he is still strongly supporting it.
Literally 'raw image', this term is used to describe unedited or candid photos, often shared to show authenticity in social media posts.
I prefer raw images; they look more natural.
Literally means 'to watch the sea', this term symbolizes a longing for freedom and relaxation, often associated with travel and escape from daily pressures.
I really want to go to the seaside to relax and watch the waves.
Translating to 'smooth sailing all the way', this phrase is often used to wish someone a safe and easy journey. It carries a positive connotation and expresses good wishes for a smooth experience.
Wishing you 'smooth sailing all the way' on your trip; have a pleasant journey!
Meaning 'willful' or 'headstrong,' this term describes someone who is selfish or acts on a whim without considering consequences. It can be used in both critical and playful tones.
She is really willful, always wanting to do what she likes.
Translating to 'apology competition,' this term humorously describes the trend where public figures or influencers issue numerous apologies for mistakes, often in a way that feels insincere or exaggerated.
He recently lost badly in the apology competition.
Translates to 'not afraid of the cold.' Used to describe someone who remains unfazed by criticism or challenges. It reflects a resilient attitude.
She is really not afraid of the cold, never backing down from criticism.
Literally means 'guiding light.' It refers to someone or something that provides guidance in difficult situations, often used metaphorically for mentors or significant life influences.
He has always been my guiding light.
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.
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.
Literally meaning 'soul rescue', this phrase is used to express the act of helping someone regain their motivation or spirit, especially when they’re feeling down. It’s often associated with uplifting messages.
This song is really my soul rescue; after listening, my mood improved a lot.
This term refers specifically to the phonetic transcription of Chinese characters using the Latin alphabet. It's essential for language learning, allowing non-native speakers to pronounce Mandarin correctly.
While learning Chinese characters, 'pinyin' is also very important.
Literally meaning 'to defeat', this term refers to overcoming challenges, often used in gaming or competitive contexts to celebrate victories or achievements.
I 'defeated' the final boss, it feels so good.
Translates to 'surface effort.' It refers to making a show of effort without genuine commitment or effectiveness. It's used critically when someone is perceived as being superficial.
He puts forth surface effort very well, but in reality, there is no substantial progress.
Translating to 'mindset,' this term is used to describe one’s attitude or approach towards life, situations, or challenges. It’s frequently mentioned in the context of personal development.
Changing your mindset is essential to better face life’s challenges.
While it literally means 'status,' it refers to social media updates about one's thoughts, feelings, or momentary life events. It's often used in casual conversations about sharing or updating one's life.
Her status today seems not very good.
Meaning 'online lending', this term is used to refer to digital platforms that offer loans. It often carries a negative connotation due to concerns about high interest rates and the potential for financial troubles.
He is in deep debt because of online lending; it's truly a lesson learned.
Meaning 'lost self,' this phrase reflects feelings of confusion regarding one’s identity or purpose, often highlighting the struggle of personal development.
Recently, I’ve felt a bit lost and don’t know what I want.
Meaning 'to push away,' this term is often used to express the act of avoiding social obligations or commitments, such as declining invitations. It reflects a growing trend of prioritizing personal space and mental he...
I've been wanting to push away all social activities recently.
This term means 'to run wild,' referring to someone who acts freely and without restraint, often in a rebellious or carefree manner. It can be used in various contexts from personal freedom to creative expression.
During the holidays, I want to run wild and travel to explore new places.
Literally meaning 'seeing makes me very happy,' this phrase describes something that causes joy or satisfaction upon seeing it. It’s often used for cute animals or heartwarming news.
This little dog is so cute; seeing it makes me very happy!
Meaning 'to become popular,' this term is often used to describe trends, memes, or content that suddenly gains widespread attention or goes viral.
This video has become popular; everyone is discussing it.
This idiom means 'half a pound and eight ounces,' suggesting that two parties are equally matched or equally flawed. It’s used to indicate that neither side in a disagreement is better than the other.
The result of their argument was actually that neither side was better off.
'憋屈' means 'to feel wronged' or 'suffocated' and describes a situation where someone is unable to express their feelings or frustrations. It highlights the emotional weight of unexpressed grievances.
My thoughts were not understood, and I really feel wronged.
Translating to 'on the verge of collapse,' this term describes a situation or person that seems unstable or in danger of failing. It reflects a sense of impending crisis or urgency.
His emotions have been very unstable lately; it really worries me, on the verge of collapse.
This term means 'only because it didn’t succeed,' often used to express disappointment about unfulfilled expectations, like a failed plan or relationship. It conveys feelings of bitterness or regret.
The reason I liked him was really just because it didn’t work out.
Literally meaning 'milk tea economy,' this term refers to the economic impact and popularity of bubble tea and similar beverages among young consumers. It symbolizes the spending power and consumption habits of the yo...
The milk tea economy is booming right now; everyone loves to drink it.
Literally meaning 'disheveled hair and dirty face,' this term humorously describes someone looking unkempt or not well-groomed. It's often used in a self-deprecating way.
I look totally disheveled today; don't take my picture!
This slang term means 'intellectually disabled' but is often used to humorously insult someone perceived as foolish or making poor decisions. It should be used cautiously due to its sensitive nature.
His performance today was really foolish.
Meaning 'the future is promising,' this term expresses hope and positivity about what lies ahead. It’s commonly used to encourage others or to express optimism.
Although there are difficulties now, I believe the future is promising.
Translating to 'onion,' this term refers to someone who has multiple layers of personality or emotional depth, making them complex and sometimes difficult to understand. It emphasizes the nuanced nature of individuals.
This friend is like an onion, always having unexpected sides.
Translating to 'leave it to the future us', this term emphasizes procrastinating important decisions or actions for future consideration, often humorously.
Today’s work is left for future us to do.
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.
The Moonlight Treasure Box — the magical time-traveling artifact from A Chinese Odyssey that can reset time and take you back to undo your mistakes. Used online as a metaphor for anything that lets you start over: a g...
I wish I had a Moonlight Treasure Box so I could go back and choose a different major.
Means 'must-buy list,' often used in the context of shopping, especially for beauty and lifestyle products. It's a trending term in consumer culture.
This brand's skincare products are recommended as a must-buy list on Xiaohongshu.
Meaning 'master' or 'expert', this term refers to someone with exceptional skills in a specific area, such as gaming or a particular craft. It's often used in a respectful tone.
He is truly a master in this game.
Literally meaning 'not saying a word', this slang is used to describe a situation where someone remains silent or unresponsive, often in awkward or tense scenarios. It's used to convey a sense of discomfort or disappr...
He didn't say a word about the proposal during the meeting, making the atmosphere quite awkward.
Translating to 'feeling guilty or insecure', it describes a state of unease about one’s actions or thoughts, often used in humorous contexts.
I felt guilty after lying to him.
Translating to 'cloud stride', this term signifies a feeling of floating or being carefree, often in the context of online gaming or virtual activities. It expresses a sense of ease and enjoyment in digital environments.
When playing games, I feel like I'm floating carefree, completely relaxed.
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 term translates to 'confession balloon,' and it symbolizes romantic feelings or intentions, often used in the context of proposing or expressing love. The imagery evokes a sense of whimsy and romance.
His confession balloon moved me deeply.
Hurry up / get on with it / let's go — abbreviation of 搞快点 (gǎo kuài diǎn), a Cantonese-influenced expression meaning "do it faster." Used to urge someone to speed up, often impatiently or excitedly.
The updates are so slow — GKD, hurry up!
This term means 'whale hunting,' but in internet slang, it humorously refers to people who are seeking large sums of money or opportunities, often in investment contexts. It hints at greed or ambition.
He's recently been whale hunting, hoping to find a good opportunity.
Young Mistress - elevated title now widely used in customer service
Young Mistress, your bubble tea is ready for pickup.
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.
Translates to 'emotion value', this term refers to the emotional state or the perceived emotional health of individuals. It's often discussed in relation to mental health and well-being on social media platforms.
Recently, my emotional value is a bit low; I need to go out more.