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 '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.
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.
This term combines 'small' and 'battle' to describe a playful or minor confrontation, especially in online debates or arguments. It suggests a lighthearted approach to disagreements, often minimizing the seriousness o...
The small battles with friends are always fun.
Translating to 'turning back prodigal son,' this term is used to describe someone who has changed for the better, often after a period of recklessness. It can be used in personal growth discussions.
He was very rebellious before; now he has turned into a better person.
This term, which means 'little vest', refers to a secondary account or persona that people create, often for anonymity or to express different sides of themselves online.
I use a secondary account to express myself on the forum and protect my privacy.
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 'past star,' this term refers to celebrities who were once popular but are now forgotten or no longer in the spotlight. It is often used in gossiping about the entertainment industry.
His movie is considered a work of a has-been star, but it’s actually not bad.
Literally means 'younger man'. It refers to younger males in romantic contexts, often highlighting a relationship dynamic where the woman is older. It's used in conversations around dating preferences.
She prefers younger men, finding it more attractive.
Translating to 'life has nothing to love,' this term expresses a sense of disillusionment or apathy toward life, often humorously exaggerating feelings of despair or hopelessness.
I’ve been feeling a bit disillusioned with life lately.
Translating to 'magical nature,' this term describes something that is captivating or irresistibly addictive, often used in relation to songs, memes, or trends that are impossible to forget.
This song is really captivating; I can't help but want to listen to it again.
All in / YOLO - Going all in on an investment, betting everything.
He went all in on Bitcoin with his entire savings.
This term translates to 'meticulously selfish' and refers to individuals who prioritize their own interests and well-being while maintaining an appearance of being cultured and refined. It's often used to comment on s...
Her lifestyle is so meticulously selfish; she completely disregards others.
Young Mistress - elevated title now widely used in customer service
Young Mistress, your bubble tea is ready for pickup.
This phrase means 'wasting life,' commonly used to express regret or frustration over time spent on unproductive activities or things that don't bring fulfillment.
Sometimes I feel like I'm wasting my life binge-watching shows.
Literally 'turning back grass,' this term refers to the act of returning to a previous situation or relationship, often with a sense of regret. It's similar to the English phrase 'going back to old habits.'
He always goes back to his old habits; it’s really frustrating.
Translating to 'good fellow,' this term is often used to express surprise or amazement, similar to saying 'wow' in English. It can indicate admiration or disbelief, depending on context.
Wow, he actually scored full marks!
Literally meaning 'same frequency,' this term describes a deep connection or mutual understanding between individuals. It's commonly used to express emotional resonance or compatibility in friendships or relationships.
We are truly on the same wavelength; we can always talk easily.
Literally 'aunt's grave', used to refer to someone who is overly emotional or dramatic, similar to saying someone is being 'extra'.
She always cries like she's at an aunt's grave.
Meaning 'to flaunt' or 'to show off,' this term describes people who are highly expressive about their accomplishments or personal style. While it can have a positive connotation, it may also imply arrogance.
She always likes to flaunt her talents.
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.
This phrase means 'mouth complains but body is honest', describing someone who verbally expresses dislike or disapproval of something but still engages with it. It highlights the contrast between spoken words and acti...
Even though I complain, I still enjoy sweets.
Translating to 'during the pandemic,' this term is used to refer to events, changes, or behaviors that arose as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic. It reflects on the societal adaptations made.
During the pandemic, many people started shopping online and working remotely.
Translates to 'destined to be great.' This term is used to encourage someone, especially in difficult times, expressing the idea that they will eventually succeed.
Don't give up; you are destined to be great!
Referring to a popular Chinese chili sauce brand, this term is used humorously to symbolize anything that adds flavor or excitement to life, often in a deceptively simple way.
This seasoning is like Lao Gan Ma; it adds so much flavor to the dish.
Refers to a 'Twitter-style mindset,' characterized by concise communication and immediate responses, often focusing on trends and current events. It suggests a tendency towards superficial engagement.
In our information-exploding era, many people have developed a Twitter-style mindset.
Meaning 'first aid kit,' this term has evolved in internet slang to describe a backup plan or essential tools you keep handy for emergencies—especially in social situations. It's often used to refer to being prepared ...
Remember to take the first aid kit before going out, just in case it's needed.
Translates to 'feeling like a little angel,' used humorously to express modesty or to downplay one's achievements or kind acts. It reflects a playful attitude towards self-importance.
I helped a lot of people today; I feel like a little angel.
Translating to 'psychological shadow,' this term refers to the lingering psychological effects of a traumatic or negative experience. It’s often used humorously in contexts where someone is overly cautious because of ...
I have a psychological shadow from this game and don't dare to play it again.
Teary eyes - Being moved to tears.
Got teary eyes at this ending.
Translating to 'not in agreement with a single word', this phrase is used to describe conflicts that arise unexpectedly or without sufficient reason. It suggests a sudden fallout, often used humorously or dramatically.
We had a sudden disagreement, and it turned quite unpleasant.
Translating to 'ordinary person,' this term describes someone who is not a celebrity or public figure, often used in discussions about relatability and authenticity.
The stories shared by these ordinary people are very real and touching.
Meaning 'rookie' or 'newbie,' it is often used to describe someone who is inexperienced in a particular area, most commonly in gaming or learning a new skill. It can be used in a light-hearted manner.
I’m a rookie at this game; I’ve just started playing not long ago.
Translating to 'start socializing,' this term refers to the act of becoming more active in social interactions, especially for those who are usually quiet or reserved. It reflects a desire to connect more with others.
I've decided to start socializing and try to make new friends.
Translating to 'too lazy to care about you,' this phrase expresses disinterest or annoyance towards someone's words or actions. It conveys a sense of apathy.
Your complaints really make me too lazy to care about you.
This phrase means 'deceiving me is non-negotiable,' used to express a strong reaction to being tricked or fooled. It's often used humorously in response to surprising news or situations.
You didn't even tell me about this; deceiving me is non-negotiable!
This term describes someone who is a bit scatterbrained or forgetful. It carries a lighthearted and affectionate connotation, often used among friends.
You're such a scatterbrain, always forgetting things at home.
Translating to 'the former serfs sing,' this term humorously describes someone who has recently achieved success or improved their circumstances, often used in a light-hearted, celebratory context.
I just got promoted; the former serfs sing, let’s celebrate together!
This slang means 'to push up' and is often used to describe someone who exaggerates or promotes something beyond its actual value, commonly in marketing or online promotions.
He always pushes up his products, which ends up disappointing people.
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.
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.
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.
This term translates to 'self-motivated' and is often used to describe someone who takes initiative without needing external prompts. It's used in both positive contexts to praise someone's work ethic and in sarcasm w...
He is always self-motivated and never requires me to push him.
Means 'planning', often used in the context of event organization or project management. It denotes careful thought and strategy.
Our event planning was excellent; everyone is very satisfied.
Bull market - A rising market where prices are going up.
The bull market is here, everyone is making money.
Glass heart - Being overly sensitive or easily offended.
He has a glass heart, gets angry at jokes.
This acronym stands for 'et cetera', but in Chinese internet slang, it has come to humorously imply a lack of specifics or a vague reference to something unimportant yet mentioned as if it were significant.
His argument was like this, etc., with no originality.
Translates to 'never give up,' this term is often used to inspire perseverance in various challenges, especially in the context of competitions, work, or personal development.
No matter what difficulties we face, we will never give up!
Literally meaning 'chicken head,' this slang refers to someone who is ahead of the group, often used to describe a show-off in social situations. It can be used both positively and negatively, depending on the context.
He's always sharing his opinions in the group, he's really a show-off.
This term translates to 'short holiday' and refers to brief breaks during weeks or weekends, especially in relation to work schedules. It embodies the anticipation of time off.
I’m looking forward to the next short holiday to travel.
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.