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
Translating to 'making a wish,' this term is often used in contexts where people express their hopes or goals, particularly during moments of inspiration or opportunity. It carries a sense of optimism.
We make wishes during New Year, hoping for a better year ahead.
Meaning 'to get rich', this term is often used to wish someone good fortune, especially during the New Year. It’s light-hearted and is meant to inspire optimism about financial success.
Wishing you wealth in the new year!
Translates to 'to play a role,' commonly used in contexts like role-playing games or acting. It implies engaging deeply in a character or persona, often for fun.
In this game, I like to play the role of a wizard.
Translating to 'the soul that has been hurt,' this term humorously refers to individuals who have gone through emotional turmoil or heartbreak. It’s often used in memes to resonate with others experiencing similar fee...
I’m just a hurt soul.
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 translates to 'rainbow fart.' This term is used to describe excessive flattery or praise, often in an exaggerated manner. It’s often used humorously to critique over-the-top compliments.
He always gives the boss rainbow farts; he really knows how to flatter.
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.
Referring to 'small crayfish,' this term has become popular in food culture, often representing popular snack foods enjoyed by young people, especially during summer gatherings.
In summer, we always enjoy gathering to eat crayfish.
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.
Translating to 'battle chicken', it refers to a highly motivated or resilient person, particularly in competitive contexts. It emphasizes fighting spirit.
In this industry, you need to be a battle chicken to succeed.
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.
The '996 work schedule' refers to a work culture where employees are expected to work from 9 AM to 9 PM, six days a week. It has become a controversial topic highlighting issues of work-life balance and labor rights i...
Many companies implement the 996 work schedule, but employees generally feel dissatisfied.
Means 'suspense' and is commonly used to describe thrilling narratives in books, movies, or shows that engage the audience with mystery and unexpected twists.
This suspense drama always leads to unexpected outcomes.
Translating to 'blood and sweat money,' this term refers to earnings obtained through hard work and effort. It reflects a sense of pride in labor while signaling the struggle involved.
I bought this computer with my hard-earned money; I cherish it genuinely.
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 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.
Literally 'small-town exam-taker', this term describes students who excel in exams but lack practical skills or real-world experience. It often describes a certain stereotype in competitive education.
Many small-town exam-takers can only do tests; they know nothing about society.
Princess, please get in the car — flattery used to charm or court someone
My boyfriend always says 'princess, please get in the car' when he picks me up — so sweet.
Relaxed vibe; effortless confidence; the quality of seeming unbothered and at ease
She has this relaxed, effortless energy that puts you at ease.
To Fall Off the List / Did Not Make the Cut
He entered the singing competition three times, fell off the list every time, but still did not give up.
Translating to 'heart tired,' this term expresses emotional exhaustion rather than physical fatigue. It's used to describe feeling mentally drained or overwhelmed, often in social or work contexts.
I've been busy with work lately; I'm emotionally drained.
Translating to 'adding flowers to brocade', this phrase describes enhancing something that is already good. It's commonly used to refer to improvements or additional benefits.
This trip was great; adding flowers to the brocade was meeting an old friend.
Translating to 'only know how to release pigeons,' this slang is used to describe someone who frequently cancels plans or fails to show up. It humorously likens unreliable friends to pigeons that fly away.
She always cancels on me; I'm really fed up.
Meaning 'self-deprecating humor,' this term describes the act of making fun of oneself in a lighthearted manner. It’s a way to connect with others through shared flaws.
I like to use self-deprecating humor to ease awkwardness.
Translating to 'refined straight man', this slang describes men who are well-groomed and sophisticated yet may have conventional or outdated views. It’s often used humorously in discussions about masculinity.
He's really a refined straight man, into fashion but doesn't understand women.
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!
This term translates to 'reverse hype' and refers to the strategy of generating attention or engagement by downplaying something rather than promoting it. It's often used in marketing.
This brand attracted many customers through reverse hype.
Originally a Buddhist term, it represents wisdom and understanding. In slang usage, it refers to someone who acts wisely or makes clever decisions in tricky situations.
Seeing her ability to handle problems, she truly embodies wisdom.
Translating to 'friend circle,' it refers to the social networking feature in WeChat where users can share updates and photos. It symbolizes the importance of social media in maintaining connections.
I just posted a new photo on my friend circle.
Meaning 'the life of a worker', this phrase expresses the struggles and hardships faced by employees in modern society. It’s often used to highlight the challenges of balancing work and personal life, resonating with ...
Facing all this pressure, I really feel like the life of a worker.
Translating to 'internet spirit', this phrase refers to the culture of sharing, openness, and innovation characterizing the internet age. It embodies the ethos of connectivity and collaboration.
We should promote the internet spirit and create the future together.
Literally 'revive full health on the spot', this term is often used to describe someone bouncing back quickly from a setback or recovering rapidly from a low point. It reflects resilience and resourcefulness.
After a night's rest, I have revived fully on the spot today!
Literally 'skipping class', this term is used to describe the act of intentionally missing classes or lectures. It often carries a connotation of rebellion among students.
I want to skip class today and go watch a movie.
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.
Literally 'data killer', this slang refers to individuals or tools that disrupt or invalidate existing data trends, often used in marketing and analysis discussions. It highlights a disruptive impact on established no...
He’s a data killer, always finding new ways to overturn old data.
Translating simply to 'hahaha', this term expresses hearty laughter and is often used in digital communication to convey amusement or joy. It's a staple in chat conversations.
Upon seeing this joke, I burst out laughing.
Translating to 'memory kill,' this term describes something that evokes nostalgia, often used in discussions of media or retro culture. It’s a way to express the emotional impact of recalling fond memories.
This song brings back so many memories; it reminds me of my college days.
Translating to 'little cutie,' this term is often used as an endearing way to refer to someone who is cute or lovable, whether it's a friend, pet, or romantic interest. It shows affection and warmth.
You are such a little cutie!
Translates to 'really amazing' or 'really awesome.' It's used to express admiration, often in response to impressive achievements or talents.
His performance was really amazing, it opened my eyes.
Literally meaning 'to pay the bill,' this term is commonly used when dining out, often carrying an implication of who should take responsibility for payment in social gatherings.
Let me treat you to dinner today; I’ll pay the bill.
Literally means 'to flick the tail.' In internet slang, it humorously describes someone who suddenly changes their attitude or opinion, often in relation to gossip or trends.
You’re such a flip-flopper; you said you didn’t like it, but now you can’t resist.
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 'there's such an operation,' used to express surprise or disbelief over someone's unconventional or unexpected actions. It can imply both admiration and critique.
The way he speaks makes me feel like there's such an operation.
This phrase means 'human observation' and is used to describe the act of watching and analyzing the behaviors and interactions of people around you, especially in public spaces. It often carries a humorous or social c...
Sitting in the café, I enjoy observing humanity.
This term translates to 'contrast cuteness', describing a situation or character where their appearance contradicts their personality, creating an unexpected charm. It’s often used in discussions about characters in m...
The contrast cuteness of this character leaves a deep impression.
A playful term that refers to characters resembling superheroes, often used to describe individuals who dress up or behave heroically. It implies humor and whimsy.
He dressed up like a superhero today; it's quite funny.
'Life reversal' describes a dramatic turnaround in one’s life circumstances, often from negative to positive. It encapsulates that moment where everything changes for the better, filled with hope and potential.
This movie tells a story of a life reversal.
Translating to 'beggar culture,' it refers to the phenomenon of expecting others to pay for your entertainment or lifestyle. It's often criticized in discussions about social responsibility.
I dislike beggar culture the most; they always want others to treat them.
Translates to 'collapse' and describes a state of emotional breakdown or extreme stress. It's often used in reaction to overwhelming situations and can be humorous or serious.
Seeing this news really made me collapse.
Translating to 'Rocket Girls,' this term refers to talented young female artists or influencers who gain rapid popularity. It's often used in a context of empowerment and aspiration.
These Rocket Girls are so talented.