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.
Literally 'screw', this term describes a person who plays a small but crucial role in a team or project. It can be used affectionately to emphasize their importance despite being less visible.
In this team, I’m just a screw, but I’m important too.
Literally meaning 'release poison,' this slang is used to describe someone who shares negative or toxic thoughts or information that can influence others. It can refer to gossip or negative comments.
She always spreads negativity, making those around her feel uneasy.
This term often refers to someone who is dreamily beautiful or ethereal, typically used in a romantic context. It derives from a character in a famous Chinese film, symbolizing idealized beauty.
She is as beautiful as Zixia, captivating everyone.
Literally 'shadow friend,' this term refers to someone who follows another person's life closely on social media without actively engaging or being a real-life friend. It's often used to describe silent followers who ...
I have many shadow friends on Weibo; they always silently watch my updates.
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.
Translating to 'matching families,' this term refers to the idea that relationships should be formed between individuals from similar social or economic backgrounds. It reflects traditional views on marriage and compa...
Her parents insist on matching families, so she faces a lot of pressure.
This term means 'newbie' or 'rookie', often in a playful context. It reflects a sense of charm associated with being inexperienced, commonly used in gaming or online communities.
As a newbie, I have a lot to learn.
The Algorithm — originally the standard technical term for algorithm, now used culturally to describe being captured or manipulated by platform recommendation systems.
The algorithm knows me too well — I've been scrolling for two hours and can't stop.
Translating to 'pursue dreams', this term captures the spirit of chasing one’s aspirations despite challenges. It inspires individuals to actively seek their goals with passion.
We need to pursue our dreams and strive to achieve our goals.
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.
This term literally translates to 'money path' and refers to the potential for financial success in a certain career or investment. It's often used in discussions about job prospects and personal finance.
This industry has great prospects; there's a lot of potential for financial success.
Literally 'pull-tab can,' this term humorously refers to someone who is shallow or superficial, akin to an empty container. It's often used in a dismissive context.
His words are too shallow, just like a pull-tab can.
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.
Translating to 'earthly wealthy flower', this term refers to someone who is exceptionally beautiful or glamorous, often used to praise someone's looks or style.
She looks like an earthly wealthy flower in that dress.
This term means 'to connect', often used in gaming and technology contexts when players or devices link up. It can also refer to online interactions or communications.
Let’s 'connect' and play games together tonight!
Translating to 'resource depletion,' this term is often used metaphorically to describe feeling burnt out or exhausted, particularly in creative fields or during intense work periods.
I've been so busy with work lately that I feel completely burnt out.
Meaning 'self-comfort', this term is frequently used to describe the act of reassuring oneself in difficult or disappointing situations. It's often shared jokingly among friends who understand the struggles of modern ...
Even though work is tiring, I must engage in some self-comfort.
Translating to 'stagnation', this term describes being stuck in place, either in personal growth or career progression. It reflects the frustrations individuals feel when they feel unable to move forward.
Recently, I feel like I'm stagnating in my work.
A term that combines 'wall' and 'thump,' it describes the romantic gesture of pinning someone against a wall during a moment of intimacy. It's often used in the context of dramas and romance, symbolizing passion.
In last night's drama, the male lead pinned the female lead against the wall; it was so romantic.
Translating to 'petting cats', this term describes the act of playing with or caring for cats, reflecting a lighthearted attitude towards pet ownership. It often expresses a sense of comfort and relaxation.
I like to pet cats when I want to relax.
Meaning 'first eat a piece of candy,' this phrase is often used to lighten the mood or make a situation more pleasant before discussing something serious or unpleasant.
Let's eat a piece of candy before discussing something important.
Gold farming / Play to earn - Making money by playing blockchain games.
He earns thousands per month gold farming.
Losing blood - Losing energy or money.
Overtime is draining me badly.
This phrase translates to 'as if it's going to be a hit' and is often used to express excitement or anticipation for a piece of content, like a video or meme, that is expected to gain popularity quickly. It reflects t...
This video seems like it's going to be a hit; everyone go check it out!
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?
Little fairy - Cute term for a pretty girl.
The little fairy is cute today too.
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.
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.
Literally means 'Douyin Tribe,' this term refers to people who are avid users of Douyin, often creating and sharing short videos. It reflects the cultural phenomenon of short video consumption in China, highlighting a...
I recently joined the Douyin Tribe and spend every day watching videos.
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.
This term translates to 'big shot' or 'boss' and is used to refer to someone who is highly skilled or influential in a certain field. It conveys respect and admiration for their accomplishments.
He's truly a big shot in this industry; everyone respects him.
Referring to 'turkey,' this term has been playfully used to describe someone who is a bit silly or foolish. It's used humorously and can be affectionate or teasing.
He really is a turkey, often doing funny things.
This term refers to a 'Buddhist-style' approach to work, where one maintains a laid-back, stress-free attitude, regardless of challenges. It's often used to comment on a relaxed work ethic, where results are secondary...
In the company, everyone is working in a Buddhist way; no one works overtime.
Literally meaning 'no problems,' this slang is used to express agreement or approval. It can be seen as a way to validate someone's opinion or statement.
What you said is spot on; we should definitely do it this way.
This phrase means 'speaking incoherently' and is often used to describe someone who is mumbling or failing to express their thoughts clearly. It reflects a moment of confusion or panic during conversations.
He spoke incoherently due to nervousness, and everyone laughed.
Translating to 'releasing the big move,' this term is used to describe making a powerful or impressive move or action, often in competitions or arguments.
He made an impressive move in the competition and ultimately won the championship.
Translating to 'to take chestnuts from the fire,' this saying describes a situation where someone benefits from the hard work or risk of others. It often has a negative connotation.
He always lets others take risks while he reaps the benefits.
Despicable person / Lowlife (sharp personal insult)
Despicable people are just being dramatic — ignore her.
This phrase means 'just kidding' or 'playful banter', indicating that the speaker is joking around. It's used to lighten the mood after making a teasing comment.
You didn’t save any money this month? Just kidding, don’t take it too seriously.
Meaning 'more than friendship, but not yet love,' this phrase perfectly describes ambiguous relationships where feelings are strong but have not transitioned into romance. It’s often used among young people.
We are in a relationship that is more than friendship, but not yet love.
Translating to 'fierce man', this term often describes muscular or strong men, frequently used humorously to exaggerate someone's masculinity. It can also apply to individuals showing great courage or strength.
He went to the gym and became a fierce man; it really makes people look at him differently.
Translating to 'human comedy,' this term is used to describe everyday humorous situations and events that seem ironic or absurd. It captures the light-hearted moments in life despite its challenges.
Life is like a human comedy; there are always unexpected funny moments.
This term literally means 'puzzle' but is used in internet slang to refer to cooperative efforts to solve a problem or complete a task with others. It emphasizes teamwork and collaboration in achieving goals.
We are working together like a puzzle in this project.
This term means 'to throw away' or 'to dump,' and is often used in a relationship context when someone decides to break away from a partner. It can also suggest leaving something behind without care.
I've decided to dump this unreliable boyfriend.
Translating to 'persistence', it refers to the quality of never giving up despite challenges, commonly used in motivational contexts.
As long as you persist, you will definitely succeed.
Literally meaning 'salt selection', this term refers to curated or premium content that is of high quality. It's often used to promote exclusive or valuable information on social media platforms.
I've been watching some premium videos lately, and the content is really great.
Literally 'little knife enthusiasts,' this term refers to people who are passionate about collecting or using knives, often in niche online communities. It reflects a hobbyist culture.
He’s a little knife enthusiast; he always shows me his collection.
This term means 'downcast' or 'low-spirited' and is often used to describe feelings of sadness or disappointment. It can be used casually among friends to express mood.
I've been feeling a bit downcast due to work pressure lately.
This term means 'party' and specifically refers to lively gatherings or parties, especially among young people. It's often associated with fun, celebration, and socializing.
We're going to a party this weekend!
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