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
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.
Literally 'free-range,' this term describes a parenting or management style that allows for independence and freedom, often used in discussions about child-rearing or team leadership.
I take a free-range approach to parenting, hoping they can grow independently.
This term means 'late-stage laziness' and describes someone who is extremely lazy or has a chronic tendency to procrastinate. It's often used humorously to convey a sense of resignation about one’s lack of motivation.
Right now, I'm in the late stage of laziness; I just want to sleep.
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.
Translating to 'extraordinary' or 'superb', this term is often used to describe individuals who display exceptional talents or skills. It conveys admiration for those who stand out in their fields.
His acting talent is truly extraordinary.
Translating to 'rational consumption,' this term emphasizes the importance of being smart about spending and consumption choices.
We should learn to be rational consumers and not be deceived by advertisements.
Literally means 'dreamy opening', it describes a perfect or ideal start to a situation, particularly in gaming or competitive contexts. It’s often used humorously to highlight fortunate beginnings.
In this match, I had a dreamy opening, taking an early lead.
Translating to '腐 culture' (with '腐' representing '腐乳' or '腐烂'), this term describes subcultures that celebrate same-sex love, especially in the context of male relationships, often in forms of fan fiction, art, and m...
She is a '腐' culture enthusiast who loves to read fan works.
Literally 'Buddha-like youth,' this term describes young people who maintain a laid-back, nonchalant attitude toward life, often rejecting societal pressures. It symbolizes a lifestyle of indifference to competition a...
I am now a Buddha-like youth, no longer worried about anything.
This term means 'to blow up,' used to describe something that has become extremely popular or viral, especially in social media or content creation. It indicates the explosive success of a topic or trend.
This video blew up overnight; it's unbelievable.
Translates to 'small goals.' This term is often used to refer to achievable objectives, often in a light-hearted or humorous manner, especially in the context of New Year’s resolutions.
My small goal is to drink more water every day.
This term, taken directly from English, is used humorously to refer to someone who is exceptionally talented or skilled at a particular activity, as in 'CEO of (something).' It implies masterful control or influence.
He is truly the CEO of skills in the game; no doubt about it.
Translating to 'self-reflection', this term emphasizes the importance of looking inward and evaluating one’s own thoughts and actions. It’s often used in contexts of personal growth and development.
Everyone needs self-reflection in order to move forward better.
Translating to 'milk tea sister', this term is often used to describe a young lady who enjoys drinking milk tea, a popular beverage in China. It reflects not only a love for the drink but also a youthful lifestyle oft...
She's really a milk tea sister, always carrying her milk tea when she goes out.
Though it translates to 'dog head protects life', this term is a humorous way to comment on using memes or humor to deflect serious situations. It suggests that laughter can shield one from stress or negativity.
When encountering difficulties, remember to use humor to protect yourself.
Translated as 'little blue book', it refers to the app Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book), which combines social media and e-commerce. Users share product reviews, experiences, and lifestyle posts.
I found a lot of good things on Little Blue Book!
Literally meaning 'curse the street,' this phrase is used to describe someone who is ranting or complaining loudly about something, often in a humorous or exaggerated way.
He's ranting on the forum; it's really hilarious.
Translating to 'refreshing one's worldview', this phrase describes experiences or information that significantly change how someone views the world. It's often used after encountering surprising content.
This article really refreshed my worldview.
This term means 'self-centered behavior,' referring to people who act solely based on their own needs without considering others, often used in a critical context.
He always acts self-centeredly, without considering others.
Meaning 'tragically suffered', this term describes situations where someone faces unfortunate or comical failures. It conveys a sense of empathy for someone's troubles, often in a light-hearted manner.
He tragically failed, but he remains optimistic.
This term means 'super topic', referring to a specific fandom or community discussion thread on social media platforms like Weibo. It’s where fans gather to talk about their favorite celebrities or themes.
I saw many interesting discussions in a certain super topic today.
Translates to 'to be free and carefree', often used to describe a lifestyle choice to live spontaneously without much planning. It's popular among youth who prioritize experiences over responsibilities.
During the break, I chose to live freely and spent a few days by the sea.
This idiom refers to trivial family matters or gossip. It captures the essence of discussing daily life and family dynamics, often in a light-hearted or humorous manner.
On weekends, I like to chat with friends about trivial family matters.
Meaning 'to assist' or 'to boost', this term has recently gained traction in social media contexts, referring to helping someone with likes, shares, or comments.
Please everyone, support my new project, thank you!
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.
Meaning 'to borrow the east wind', this phrase signifies using an opportunity or favorable situation to achieve a goal. It reflects the idea of leveraging external factors for personal gain.
I borrowed the east wind in the competition and successfully won first place.
'Reconstructing oneself' describes the process of personal transformation and self-improvement. It implies a conscious effort to change one’s identity or habits for the better.
Recently, I’ve been working hard to reconstruct myself, hoping to become better.
Literally means 'giant head' but is used to describe influential figures or companies in various industries, particularly in technology and finance. It indicates power and dominance in their respective fields.
This tech giant is changing the market landscape.
Translating to 'unpacking gifts', this term is popularly used in the context of reactions to content creators opening gifts or products on live streams or videos. It reflects a trend where audiences enjoy the anticipa...
This streamer's unpacking gift videos are so interesting; everyone is waiting for her reviews.
This slang means 'poke the wax', and refers to the idea of stirring up trouble or provoking drama. It’s often used humorously in discussions about social media feuds.
She always stirs up trouble and likes to start debates in the group chat.
Translating to 'emotional trash', this term is used to describe individuals who are overwhelmed by their emotions or are unable to manage their feelings effectively. It often carries a humorous, self-deprecating conno...
I've been such an emotional wreck lately; it’s really tough.
Shipping couples - Being enthusiastic about romantic pairings, either real celebrities or fictional characters. 'CP' comes from 'coupling'.
I've been obsessively shipping this couple lately, they're so sweet!
This term combines 'small' and 'battle' to describe a playful or minor confrontation, especially in online debates or arguments. It suggests a lighthearted approach to disagreements, often minimizing the seriousness o...
The small battles with friends are always fun.
Translating to 'the trend of the times', this phrase describes phenomena that are becoming increasingly popular or inevitable. It reflects social, economic, or political trends that people are adapting to.
In the wave of technological development, smart homes have become the trend of the times.
Meaning 'niche' or 'obscure,' this term is often used to describe topics, interests, or trends that aren’t mainstream but have a dedicated following.
This niche culture is quite popular in small circles.
Translating to 'bad habit,' it reflects the humorous acknowledgment of one’s flaws or unproductive behaviors, often used in light-hearted self-criticism.
My bad habit is not going to sleep at night.
Literally meaning 'to fall,' it describes moments of embarrassment or failure, often used in humorous contexts. It highlights the clumsiness in daily life.
I fell on the street; it was so embarrassing.
Meaning 'to switch', this term is used in internet slang to describe changing topics, personas, or moods quickly, often in a humorous or playful manner. It can also refer to switching perspectives in conversations.
He switches moods in a second, making it hard to keep up.
Literally meaning 'little waist essence', this term is used to refer to a fashionable and charming person, often associated with trends in body image and style.
She really is stylish; everything she wears looks good.
Translating to 'social relationships', this term often refers to the networks of relationships people build for personal or professional gain. It reflects the importance of connections in both career advancement and s...
In this industry, social relationships are very important.
Literally 'argument champion,' this term humorously refers to someone who excels at arguing, often used in friendly banter among friends.
Among our friends, he is definitely the argument champion.
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.
Meaning 'verification,' this term is commonly used in online contexts where users get validated or certified, especially in social media platforms to indicate authenticity.
He just got verified, and his fans are all very excited.
This term means 'to rush into reality,' typically used when someone meets a person they’ve only known online. It implies excitement mixed with nervousness about meeting in person.
I finally met a friend from online in reality; I’m both nervous and excited.
Translating to 'pretend to be busy,' this term humorously captures the act of making oneself appear busy to avoid unwanted attention or responsibility.
Don't pretend to be busy; come help me.
Translating to 'restart life,' this term is often used to describe a major life change, such as quitting a job or relocating. It implies a fresh start or a new beginning, resonating with those seeking transformation.
I have decided to 'restart life' and pursue my dreams.
Means 'very naughty' or 'very cheeky'. It is often used to describe someone who is playful or mischievous, particularly in a light-hearted context.
You're really cheeky, always teasing me!
Literally meaning 'sudden death', it humorously refers to unexpected or extreme situations that leave someone shocked or overwhelmed, often used in a hyperbolic way.
Seeing this price, I feel like I'm going to have a heart attack.
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.
Translating to 'creature creation,' this term often refers to artistic projects involving crafts or DIY development. It highlights creativity and is often used in the context of handmade items.
I love creature creation, especially handmade puppets.