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 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.
This term translates to 'private collection' and describes things, like music or media, that someone keeps for themselves, often referring to hidden gems that are not widely known. It evokes a sense of exclusivity.
I have some hidden music gems I want to share with you.
This term, imitating the sound of a gentle pat, expresses affection and care, particularly towards pets or loved ones. It conveys warmth and is often used in casual conversations.
Good baby, pat pat.
Literally meaning 'to roll up', this phrase indicates getting motivated or ramping up one's efforts in a competitive context, often related to work or study. It expresses a mindset of tackling challenges head-on.
Hurry up and roll up! Everyone is working hard.
Translating to 'stab with a knife', this term is used figuratively to describe the act of backstabbing or betrayal, especially among friends. It's associated with disloyalty and unexpected treachery.
He backstabbed me behind my back and is not trustworthy at all.
All in / YOLO - Going all in on an investment, betting everything.
He went all in on Bitcoin with his entire savings.
This cute term refers to someone who is a 'drifter' or goes with the flow, often in a carefree manner. It’s typically used to describe young people who are relaxed and spontaneous in their approach to life.
He’s always so carefree; I really admire that!
An onomatopoeic term imitating a snapping sound, often used to describe a funny or surprising moment. It's playful and often associated with humorous content.
The moment his expression changed, I couldn’t help but burst out laughing.
This term translates to 'worker', similar to '打工人', but with a slightly more formal tone. It refers to people who work under employment instead of being self-employed or entrepreneurs.
As workers, we need to voice our rights.
Meaning 'topic ender', this term refers to someone who can abruptly shift or end conversations, often unintentionally. It's used humorously to describe social awkwardness or a lack of conversational skills.
He always becomes the topic ender, leaving others with no way to continue the conversation.
This endearing term literally means 'husband in heaven' and is used humorously to refer to a beloved celebrity or fictional character as if he were a person's true partner. It reflects a playful attachment to idealize...
This actor is so handsome; he is truly my husband in heaven.
Literally 'financial freedom', this term describes a state where a person has enough wealth to live without working. It reflects aspirations of younger generations for a carefree lifestyle.
Everyone hopes to achieve financial freedom as soon as possible and live the life they want.
Referring to 'Jack Ma's return', this term describes a surprising comeback, especially in business or entertainment. It evokes the dramatic flair of unexpected success.
His idea feels like a surprising comeback from Jack Ma.
Meaning 'to order takeout', this commonplace phrase reflects the modern convenience of food delivery, especially among busy urban dwellers. It represents a significant aspect of contemporary dining culture.
I worked overtime too late today, so I decided to order takeout.
Noob chicken - A bad or inexperienced player.
I am a noob, do not curse at me.
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.
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.
Meaning 'there's no saving it', this phrase is often used humorously to describe a hopeless or dire situation. It can refer to anything from personal problems to failed attempts at tasks.
My life is hopeless; it's such a mess.
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 'catching a horse,' this is a humorous term used to describe a situation where something dramatic or shocking occurs, akin to ‘drama’ in English.
This variety show is so dramatic that I laughed until my stomach hurt.
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.
Meaning 'European luck', this term is used to describe someone who has good luck or favorable outcomes, particularly in games or competitions. It's often used light-heartedly to tease someone who has had a streak of g...
I always have good luck in the lottery; I'm really fortunate.
Literally 'disappearing social interactions', this term describes the phenomenon where people seem to be physically present but mentally disengaged, often due to their phones or social media. It's used to critique our...
At the party, everyone was scrolling on their phones; it was truly disappearing social interactions.
This phrase means 'seeking plums to quench thirst', which metaphorically refers to visualizing something that satisfies one’s desire. It is often used to describe longing or craving something.
During stressful times, I often visualize a bright future to quench my thirst for hope.
This phrase means 'a common heart' and is often used to advise someone to maintain a calm and ordinary perspective in life, particularly during challenging times. It encourages simplicity and acceptance.
It's important to maintain a common heart when facing difficulties.
Of all martial arts under heaven, only speed is unbreakable. A famous wuxia maxim used online to justify doing anything fast — fast replies, fast shipping, fast food, fast decisions — with mock martial-arts gravitas.
For food delivery, the only unbreakable skill is speed.
Translating to 'top trending topics across the internet,' this term is used to describe something that has gained widespread attention online. It often refers to news or events that capture the collective interest.
This topic has recently become a top trending search across the internet.
This term means 'devastating blow', used to describe an unexpected negative event or information that significantly impacts someone, often in a dramatic or humorous context.
My report card truly dealt me a devastating blow.
This term refers to mini-programs on WeChat that allow users to order bubble tea and other beverages easily. It symbolizes the convenience of digital life and the popularity of bubble tea among young people.
I ordered a cup of bubble tea through the mini-program.
This term translates to 'losing one's mind in a crazy way' and is used to describe behaviors or actions that are extremely irrational or reckless. It often embodies a sense of pushing beyond normal limits, typically i...
His actions lately have been absolutely insane; he’s completely lost his sense of reason.
Translating to 'take it easy', this term is used as a reminder to someone to not overexert themselves or to relax. It carries a caring tone in friendly conversations.
No matter how busy work gets, you need to take it easy.
Center Position / The Spotlight Spot
After a million fan votes, she finally took the center position and became the group leader.
Translating to 'not showing my face to people,' it expresses a feeling of shame or embarrassment, often used humorously in self-deprecating contexts. It showcases a relatable sentiment of regret.
I said the wrong thing yesterday; I really can’t show my face to people today.
Translating to 'brain-dead,' this slang is used to describe someone who acts foolishly or makes illogical decisions. It's often used in a humorous or derogatory context.
His recent behavior has been really foolish.
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!
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.
Down to earth, grounded in real life — describes content, language, or a person that feels authentic and relatable to ordinary people rather than polished or out of touch. The defining quality of 张雪机车's appeal: she ta...
She speaks in such a grounded way — watching her videos feels like chatting with a neighbor.
Literally meaning 'fiery hot', this term describes something that is trending, popular, or in high demand. It is often used in the context of viral trends, events, or products.
This movie is currently 'fiery hot', everyone is talking about it.
Great hero — the honorific title for a legendary martial arts master in wuxia. Online, used sarcastically or humorously to address anyone doing something even mildly brave or generous, treating them like an epic wuxia...
Great hero, please stay! Could you help me get my delivery?
Meaning 'your ears are pregnant', this phrase is humorously used to describe music or sounds that are so good, they elicit a strong emotional response. It’s a playful way to convey musical enjoyment.
This song is so good, it's like my ears are pregnant!
Translating to 'dream combination', this term refers to a perfect pairing or collaboration that many people aspire to see, such as in music or film. It reflects idealistic views about partnerships.
The collaboration between these two stars is truly a dream combination!
Translating to 'clear,' this term is often used to describe something that is easy to understand or perceive. It is used to compliment clarity in communication or thought.
Your explanation is very clear, and it helped me understand.
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.
Translating to 'face rolls keyboard,' this term describes a situation where someone types without thinking or makes ridiculous comments that don’t make sense. It humorously reflects a lack of coherence in communication.
His comments are simply face rolls keyboard; they make no sense at all.
Translating to 'fully contentious', this term describes someone who loves to argue or debate. It's often used to ridicule those who take opposing views for the sake of contention.
He’s always fully contentious in discussions, just arguing for the sake of it.
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.
Translating to 'blind eye', this term is used to describe someone who fails to notice obvious things, often in a humorous or slightly insulting manner.
This person is really oblivious; they can't see that she likes him.
Meaning 'to part ways,' this term is used to describe the dissolution of a group or friendship, often accompanied by emotional weight. It can also denote the end of a collaboration in a lighter tone.
Our group is finally parting ways; I’m really going to miss it.
Literally 'buying a car,' this term has shifted to mean acquiring something significant or valuable, often used in contexts of making big life decisions or investments. It can also imply making a commitment.
He’s preparing to buy a car; it seems he’s ready to settle down.
Literally meaning 'ugly rejection,' this is a humorous term used to decline offers or invitations in a light-hearted way, often implying that the offer is unappealing. It’s commonly used in dating and social contexts.
I can only decline his invitation in an ugly way.