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.
Translates to 'online redemption,' referring to the idea of finding healing or solace through online communities or interactions. It's often used in a positive context, promoting the community aspect of the internet.
On this forum, I've found online redemption and like-minded friends.
Translating to 'seeing through the red dust', this idiom describes someone who has gained insight and clarity on life’s superficialities, often implying a philosophical or detached perspective.
After many experiences, he finally sees through the superficialities of life.
Translating to 'emotionally stable,' this phrase is often used to describe someone who remains calm and collected in various situations, but can also be sarcastically applied to someone who is clearly not stable.
He seems emotionally stable, but inside, he’s very anxious.
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.
Translating to 'to bury a landmine,' this phrase is used to describe setting a trap or creating a difficult situation for someone, especially in social media or personal interactions. It often carries a mischievous co...
He set a trap in the group, and everyone was amused by him.
Translating to 'don’t touch my cheese,' this term humorously signifies not wanting to share one’s personal space or possessions. It expresses a protective attitude towards one’s belongings.
He always wants to use my desk; don’t touch my cheese!
This idiom translates to 'skipping stones on water,' and in slang usage, it refers to a situation where someone's efforts are wasted or produce no benefits. It reflects a sense of disappointment.
This plan has really gone to waste; it was completely useless.
Ambiguous relationship - The unclear flirty stage between friends and dating.
They are flirty but not officially together.
Translating to 'chickens flying and dogs jumping', this term describes chaotic situations or uproars, often humorous in nature. It is used to convey that things are in disarray.
Last night’s party was really chaotic; everyone was having a great time.
Translating to 'rollercoaster of looks', this term is used to describe fluctuations in someone's attractiveness over time or circumstances. It can be humorous or critical.
This celebrity's attractiveness is truly a rollercoaster; sometimes they look great, sometimes they don’t.
Literally meaning 'face of the brand', this term refers to the reputation or social standing of a person or entity based on their accomplishments. It's often used to discuss status in social circles.
His reputation in this circle is very high.
Meaning 'old-fashioned' or 'cliché,' this term describes traditional ideas or concepts that lack originality. It is often used to criticize uncreative approaches.
The plot of this drama is so cliché; there's nothing new about it.
Literally 'pot circle', it refers to communities or groups that are centered around a shared interest, especially in food or cooking. It emphasizes the importance of sharing and discussing culinary experiences.
We share new recipes in our cooking community.
Literally means 'bubbling up', this slang refers to someone who suddenly appears in a conversation or a thread, often after a long absence. It implies they are finally engaging again.
Haven't seen you bubble up in so long; what’s going on?
Like a flower — an ironic name for a comedically unattractive character in Stephen Chow films. Online, 如花 is used to humorously describe a surprising contrast between someone's name or expectation and their actual app...
His online dating match sent a selfie — a total Ruhua, completely different from the description.
This phrase translates to 'feeling a bit down today'. It's often used casually to express low mood or disappointment, resonating with shared feelings of melancholy.
I'm feeling a bit down today, nothing particularly happy happened.
To play a minor extra role — originally a theater term for bit-part actors. Now used for anyone who plays a marginal, unimportant role in any situation — meetings, group projects, social events.
In this project I am just a bit player — no decision-making for me.
Translating to 'fear of clusters,' this term describes the discomfort or phobia some people have towards tightly packed objects or patterns. It is often humorously referenced in discussions about social situations.
Seeing those clustered holes makes me a bit uneasy.
Literally means 'gaslight.' It describes a situation when someone manipulates another to doubt their reality or perceptions. It's used in emotional abuse contexts.
In this relationship, I often feel like I’m being gaslighted.
Translating to 'empty head', this term is used to express a feeling of confusion or being overwhelmed, often after too much information or stress. It reflects a humorous take on mental exhaustion.
Today’s class was too difficult; my head feels empty.
Translating to 'sense of possession,' this term expresses the feeling of ownership or attachment to something, often used in relationships or fandom contexts.
I feel a strong sense of possession, thinking this idol belongs to me.
Translating to 'Little Brother Ma', this is a term used to refer to a well-known figure or influencer, often in the context of admiration. It indicates a familiar yet respectful form of address.
Little Brother Ma's new song is really nice.
Vision board / Manifestation board — a collage of images, affirmations, and goals representing everything you want to attract into your life. Hugely popular on Xiaohongshu where users share elaborate boards featuring ...
I made a manifestation board and pasted all my dreams on it.
Translating to 'white, rich, and beautiful', this term refers to a stereotype of an ideal woman who is wealthy, attractive, and fair-skinned. It is often used to depict a specific social class in a humorous or critica...
She is truly a 'white, rich, and beautiful' woman, living a wonderful life.
Translating to 'ten thousand fires urgent,' this phrase describes a situation that requires immediate attention or action, indicating a high level of urgency.
I have something extremely urgent to tell you!
Literally meaning 'vulture,' this term has been adapted to label internet users who obsessively pick apart and analyze every detail of a subject, often critiquing it harshly. It carries a negative connotation.
The comment section of that article is filled with vultures, arguing incessantly.
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.
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.
This phrase translates to 'to do something without prior agreement.' It indicates that two or more people have the same thought or action at the same time, typically used in social or fun contexts.
We coincidentally chose the same restaurant.
Translating to 'fall on the street,' this term is used humorously to describe someone who has failed or made a mistake, often in the context of a public embarrassment. It can also refer to content that flops or doesn’...
This movie flopped; I didn't expect the box office to be so poor.
Shaolin Soccer — Stephen Chow's 2001 breakthrough film combining martial arts and football. Used as a reference for any situation where someone applies completely inappropriate skills to solve a problem, or achieves s...
He used Excel data in his presentation to demolish the competitor's plan — pure Shaolin Soccer energy.
Literally meaning 'locked dead,' this term describes a state of being unable to move on, especially in relationships or emotional circumstances, often humorously. It indicates that someone is stuck in their feelings o...
His feelings for her are locked dead; he can't move on.
Translated as 'heart explosion', it describes an intense feeling of excitement or infatuation, often used in romantic contexts.
Seeing her smile made my heart explode.
To recommend enthusiastically - Strong recommendation of something you love, like MLM-level enthusiasm.
I have to recommend this drama to you, it is so good!
This term translates to 'unsatisfactory' or 'unfortunate,' often used to describe frustrations or setbacks in life. It reflects a resigned acceptance of difficulties.
Life always has its unsatisfactory moments.
Translating to 'bitten by a dog,' this humorous term is used to describe someone who has suffered an unexpected setback or embarrassment, especially in social settings. It often conveys a sense of empathy toward the p...
He was bitten by a dog at the party yesterday; it was so awkward.
Little sister - Term for an attractive young woman.
Who is this pretty lady?
Meaning 'lost' or 'confused', this term is often used to describe feelings of being directionless or unsure about one's life choices. It can refer to both personal and professional contexts.
Lately, I feel a bit lost and don't know what to do.
Translating to 'little monster', this term is often used endearingly to refer to children or pets that are mischievous or playful. It reflects affection mixed with a hint of exasperation.
My son is such a little monster; he’s always getting into trouble.
This phrase translates to 'I need to work hard today' and is used to express motivation on a challenging day. It reflects the common struggle to stay motivated, especially during tough times.
Although I’m tired, I still need to work hard today.
Meaning 'mom circle,' this term refers to a community or social group of mothers who share parenting experiences and advice online. It reflects the importance of peer support in parenting.
In the mom circle, everyone shares parenting experiences with each other.
To seek a mate; often used playfully in dating contexts, it refers to the act of looking for a romantic partner. It emphasizes the social dynamics of dating.
They’re all seeking mates online.
While this term literally refers to the popular video-sharing platform, it represents the broader culture of video consumption and content creation that has influenced Chinese social media, reflecting global connectiv...
Many people enjoy posting creative videos on YouTube.
This term means 'to enjoy life,' emphasizing a positive and carefree lifestyle. It’s used to encourage others to make the most out of everyday experiences.
Life is tough, but we still need to enjoy each day.
This term means 'treasure at home' and is often used to refer affectionately to pets, children, or items that hold sentimental value. It reflects a nurturing attitude and the importance of family bonds.
My cat is my treasure at home; it keeps me company every day.
To repay kindness swiftly and settle grudges decisively — the wuxia ideal of living by a fierce personal code of gratitude and revenge. Used online admiringly for someone who does not let grievances linger or debts go...
He paid back the money the very next day — truly a man who settles debts with speed.
Literally means 'joke', but is often used to refer to absurd situations or behaviors that are laughable or ridiculous. It's a common way to describe entertaining moments.
This incident is truly a joke; I can't help but laugh.
Meaning 'little pitiful one,' this term is often used to describe someone who is perceived as overly dramatic or overly emotional about their circumstances. It can be used affectionately or sarcastically.
She always sees herself as a little pitiful one, but honestly, it's not a big deal.
This phrase translates to 'not focusing on one's main job', describing someone who is distracted by trivial or unproductive activities. It often critiques a lack of seriousness or dedication.
He always gets distracted, with no real achievements.
Translating to 'social anxiety,' this term is used to describe the fear or anxiety surrounding social interactions. It's a growing topic of conversation in relation to mental health.
She feels social anxiety during gatherings and doesn't know what to do.
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