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
Referring to a popular pairing of characters in a fandom, often seen in fan communities. It indicates a strong interest in a specific couple or relationship, typically in dramas or animations.
I really love the couple in this show; they're so sweet!
This term means 'to hatch eggs' and is used metaphorically to describe the process of nurturing an idea or project until it's ready to be revealed. It indicates careful development.
We’ve been nurturing this project for quite a while!
Refers to the quick, light-hearted relaxation methods commonly showcased on Douyin, emphasizing short, engaging content for stress relief. It signifies a shift in how people unwind.
Work is too tiring; I need a quick Douyin-style relaxation.
Translating to 'frozen age', this term describes the condition of appearing youthful regardless of one's actual age, often associated with beauty and health.
She is truly a frozen-age goddess; she doesn’t look old at all.
Translates to 'friendly'. It describes a warm and welcoming demeanor, often used to refer to kindness in interactions. It emphasizes the importance of good relationships in social contexts.
She is a friendly person who is always willing to help others.
Meaning 'with great effort comes miracles', this phrase is often used in a humorous context to suggest that hard work can lead to unexpected or exceptional outcomes. It reflects a belief in effort and perseverance.
As long as you work hard, miracles can happen.
Meaning 'smoky atmosphere,' this term describes a sense of warmth and everyday life, often used to appreciate simple, authentic experiences that feel grounded.
This restaurant has a strong sense of warmth, making it very comfortable.
Translating to 'reverse socializing', this term refers to engaging online instead of face-to-face, often related to introverted behavior.
I prefer reverse socializing; I'd rather chat online than meet in person.
Translating to 'Uncle Bird,' this term playfully refers to older men who act youthful or are involved in pop culture. It’s often used in a teasing manner.
This Uncle Bird's dance moves are really interesting.
Translating to 'attraction power', this term describes the charisma or allure someone possesses, often in contexts of beauty or charm. It's used to compliment someone's appealing qualities.
She has a strong attraction power; everyone likes her.
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.
Translating to 'diving,' this term means to lurk or observe in online communities without participating or commenting. It reflects a low-profile approach to social media.
I lurk in the forum, just watching and not speaking.
Translating to 'salty flavor', this term describes a slightly sarcastic or bitter attitude, often used in a humorous way. It can refer to people who are overly competitive or somewhat disgruntled.
His comment had a bit of saltiness to it; it was quite funny.
Translating to 'empowerment,' this term is commonly used in professional contexts to discuss enabling individuals or communities to gain skills, confidence, and resources. It emphasizes support and growth.
We need to empower the team to help everyone reach their potential.
This phrase means 'mindset breakdown' and is used to describe moments when someone becomes overwhelmed or can no longer maintain a positive attitude, often in humorous or dramatic contexts.
Today’s work has been too exhausting; I’ve completely broken down mentally.
Translating to 'virtual person', this term is used to describe digital characters or avatars, especially in gaming and online communities. It emphasizes the blending of real and virtual identities in digital spaces.
In the game, I have a virtual person that represents my image.
Meaning 'to add oil,' this phrase is a popular way to encourage someone, similar to 'keep going' or 'you can do it.' It’s often used in competitive contexts, from exams to sports.
You must keep going, the competition is about to start!
Literally means 'air,' but in internet slang, it refers to someone who is ignored or unnoticed, as if they are 'air.' It’s often humorously used to describe social situations.
At this gathering, I feel like I’m just 'air,' with no one paying attention to me.
Translating to 'burning', this term is used to describe something exciting or inspiring, often related to motivation or passion. It encapsulates the feeling of exhilaration and enthusiasm.
This movie is so inspiring; it filled me with determination.
Translating to 'play out', it describes a situation where a game or playful act goes wrong, often leading to unexpected or humorous consequences. It's used in the context of fun gone awry.
He 'played out' at the party, and it was so funny that I cried.
Meaning 'open relationship', it refers to a romantic relationship where partners agree to engage in relationships with other people. It's become a more common topic of discussion among younger generations exploring no...
They chose an open relationship; it's quite special.
This phrase means 'not chatting anymore' and is often used to signal withdrawal from a conversation or a situation. It can imply disinterest, annoyance, or even a humorous exit from an awkward discussion.
This topic is too boring; I'm not chatting anymore.
Translating to 'cutting off, letting go, and separating', this term describes the minimalist lifestyle philosophy of decluttering and letting go of unnecessary items to achieve mental clarity. It is often associated w...
I've recently started practicing decluttering, wanting to simplify my life.
Translating to 'force-feeding,' this term refers to someone trying to compel others to accept something, usually an opinion or product, whether they want to or not.
Don't force-feed me this kind of music; I really can't stand it.
Meaning 'to suddenly become popular', this term describes something or someone who quickly gains fame or recognition, often through social media or online platforms.
This product suddenly became popular; everyone is rushing to buy it.
Show off wealth; describes the act of flaunting one's riches, often on social media. It can be viewed negatively, as it implies a lack of humility or sensitivity.
He’s showing off his wealth on Weibo; it’s really hard to watch.
Translating to 'disqualified from humanity', this term expresses feelings of extreme frustration or despair, often used humorously to self-criticize during disappointing situations. It conveys a sense of feeling inade...
I made so many mistakes today; I feel utterly disqualified from humanity.
Translating to 'abuse dogs,' this slang is used humorously to describe displays of public affection that make single people feel envious. It reflects the playful bitterness of being single in contrast to happily coupl...
Their affection really makes my single life feel miserable.
Literally 'Street of Soul Guardians', this term refers to a popular online comic and anime series. It's also used metaphorically in discussions about themes of protection and loyalty among friends.
In the story of Soul Guardians Street, the power of friendship is incredibly important.
This phrase means 'humanistic Buddhism' and symbolizes a compassionate and practical approach to Buddhism in daily life. It encourages applying Buddhist principles to everyday situations.
Practicing humanistic Buddhism in daily life makes me very happy.
The Great Sword Debate at Mount Hua — a legendary event where the greatest martial arts masters gathered to determine the strongest in the world. Now used for any high-stakes competition, debate, or showdown between t...
This year is basically the Great Sword Debate — the best of the best are here.
This term means 'reasoning' and is often used in contexts involving solving puzzles or mysteries, particularly in games or detective stories. It highlights the analytical aspect of thinking.
The reasoning in this drama is amazing; I couldn't guess the ending at all.
Translating to 'sunshine boy', this term describes a cheerful, optimistic young man full of energy and positivity. It is often associated with attractive young men who embody a bright and sunny disposition.
He always looks like a sunshine boy, which makes him very likable.
Meaning 'to lose weight dramatically,' this slang is often used in humorous contexts regarding sudden changes in someone’s physical appearance. It can also refer to stress-induced weight loss.
He has been working so hard lately that he unexpectedly lost ten pounds.
This term means 'excavator', but in internet slang, it humorously refers to someone who digs into others' private matters or secrets, often used in gossip contexts.
He always likes to be an excavator, knowing everyone's secrets.
Translating to 'turn the game around', this term refers to a dramatic change in a situation, often implying a comeback or reversal of fortune, frequently used in competitive contexts.
The game turned around at the end; it was thrilling.
Literally meaning 'light-emitting body,' this term refers to individuals who are exceptionally bright or charming, often used to compliment someone’s magnetic personality or charisma.
She was truly a light-emitting body at the party, attracting everyone's attention.
Literally meaning 'to open black,' this term is used in gaming to describe playing together with friends, often in a competitive or strategic manner. It's primarily used in multiplayer gaming contexts.
We plan to play together this weekend and have some gaming fun.
Translating to 'cloud dad,' this term refers to people who provide financial support, often used humorously in contexts like dating and friendships. It can imply someone who spoils or takes care of others.
In my heart, he is my cloud dad.
Gold farming / Play to earn - Making money by playing blockchain games.
He earns thousands per month gold farming.
Literally meaning 'spicy chicken,' this slang term is used to derogatorily describe something that is considered very poor quality or disappointing.
This movie is really bad; it's a waste of my time.
Translating to 'internet-wide black,' this term refers to a situation where someone or something is widely criticized or 'canceled' across the internet. It often implies a collective backlash.
His actions led to him being criticized all over the internet.
Scumbag guy / Player - A man who plays with feelings.
He is a player, ignore him.
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 refers to dried plums, often used humorously to describe a person who is sour or negative, likely in response to something happy or upbeat.
Don't be a sourpuss; cheer up; life must go on.
'Stable mindset' refers to having a calm and composed approach to life’s challenges. It signifies emotional resilience and the ability to handle stress without overreacting.
In the face of this pressure, my mindset is very stable.
Translates to 'sleep economy.' It refers to the growing market around sleep-related products, services, and healthy sleep lifestyles. This term highlights the awareness of sleep health among the younger demographic.
I've been obsessed with sleep economy products lately and feel like I'm sleeping better.
Meaning 'burn out', this term describes the state of exhaustion from overworking or continuous stress. It indicates a need for rest and reflects the pressures of modern work culture.
I've been working too much lately and feel like I'm about to burn out.
Translating to 'seeking the truth,' this term is often used in response to scandals or gossip, reflecting a desire for transparency and honesty. It shows skepticism towards surface-level information.
What’s the truth behind this incident? Everyone is seeking answers.
Translating to 'paying respects for the New Year,' this term refers to the tradition of greeting people during the Spring Festival, conveying good wishes and blessings.
The Spring Festival is approaching; we should greet each other with New Year wishes.