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 'Involution Youth', this term reflects the pressure on young people in China to compete fervently in education, jobs, and life despite diminishing returns. It describes a cycle of excessive competition.
Many involuted youth are working tirelessly now.
Meme / Running joke - An inside joke or internet meme.
This meme is too old.
This term means 'to establish one’s territory', often used by social media influencers who define their niche or audience. It can signify both positive branding or negative exclusivity.
She is establishing her territory in the fashion industry more firmly.
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.
This term refers to a specific genre of content on Douyin that is humorous or absurd, often involving remixing videos and sounds in a playful, exaggerated manner. It highlights creativity and humor in short video form...
These Douyin 'ghost crop' videos are really hilarious!
Meaning 'translator,' this term has been adapted in internet slang to humorously refer to someone who interprets or decodes complex social media posts or memes. It reflects the need for clarity in a world full of mixe...
This post is too hard to understand; could I get a translator to help out?
Translating to 'traffic', this term refers to online engagement, such as views, clicks, or user activity on social media or websites. It highlights the importance of user interaction for content creators.
This article has high traffic; everyone is discussing it.
Translating to 'nonsense' or 'idle talk,' this term is used to describe unnecessary or excessive chatter. It often carries a dismissive tone when addressing trivial conversations.
Stop with the nonsense; just tell me the main point.
Brain has short-circuited; completely lost it; gone crazy
You bought ten pairs of shoes?! Have you lost your mind?!
Meaning 'ending,' this term is often used in narratives, movies, or dramas to discuss plot twists or resolutions. It reflects a desire for satisfying conclusions.
I think the ending of this TV series was a bit rushed.
This term means 'making friends', reflecting the importance of social connections in modern life, particularly in apps and platforms designed for dating or friendship.
Making friends online has become very popular now.
Translating to 'laser eyes,' this term describes a focused and intense gaze, often used humorously to indicate someone is staring intensely, usually at something they want or desire. It expresses excitement or determi...
He’s staring intensely at that new phone; it’s obvious he likes it a lot.
Meaning 'sandwich cookie,' this term is used humorously to describe someone caught in a difficult situation between two parties. It conveys the pressure of being in the middle of conflicting expectations or demands.
I feel like a sandwich cookie, caught between my friends and family.
This term means 'momentum' or 'popularity' and is used to describe someone's rising status or trendiness in social or professional settings. It denotes being in the spotlight.
He has been very popular lately; everyone is paying attention to him.
Translating to 'mutually tear each other,' this term describes a situation where two parties engage in a heated argument or verbal conflict. It’s often used in online discussions.
This post sparked 'mutual tearing'; netizens started attacking each other.
Translating to 'routine master,' this term is humorously used to describe someone who is very skilled at using tricks or methods to achieve their ends, especially in romance or negotiation.
He's really a master of tricks; no one can escape his charm.
Meaning 'first release on the entire internet,' this term is used to hype up content that is claimed to be exclusive or original. It's often seen in marketing and promotional contexts.
This movie is the first release on the entire internet; everyone go watch it!
Translating to 'naive', this term describes someone who is innocent or trusting, often used in a playful or sarcastic manner. It can refer to people who believe everything they hear or are oblivious to harsh realities.
He's so naive, always believing in those unrealistic dreams.
This term translates to 'big fire' and is used to describe something that has gone viral or is extremely popular at the moment. It's commonly used in reference to trends, memes, and popular figures.
This song is super popular lately; everyone is listening to it.
Translating to 'showing off love,' this term describes couples who publicly display their affection, often on social media. It can evoke feelings of envy among single people or those in less ideal relationships.
They are showing off their love on Weibo; I feel the pressure of being single growing.
This slang translates to 'out of fashion' or 'past its prime', used to describe trends or celebrities that once were popular but have since faded. It's often used to critique or joke about fleeting fame.
His style is now out of fashion; no one follows it anymore.
Translating to 'distinct styles', this term indicates that various people or things have noticeably different traits or characteristics. It's commonly used in discussions about fashion, art, or personal expression.
Their works have distinct styles, each with its own characteristics.
Literally translates to 'bear child,' this term refers to a mischievous or troublesome child, often used humorously to describe their antics.
This mischievous child broke the toy again today.
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.
This term means 'to explain clearly' or 'to spill the beans' and is often used in conversations about being transparent or honest. It's related to open communication.
We need to be clear with each other; otherwise, misunderstandings will grow.
Translating to 'understand in a second,' this term is used to describe something that is instantly comprehensible or easy to understand. It is often used in educational contexts or when sharing information.
The explanation in this video is very clear; I understood it instantly.
This term means 'to rescue' and is often used humorously in the context of complaining about daily struggles, implying a need for saving from mundane issues. It conveys a desire for assistance or relief.
I just want to rescue myself from procrastination.
Translating to 'study hard', this phrase is often used humorously or as motivation in academic contexts. It can convey encouragement or sarcasm, depending on the situation.
You need to study hard and not waste time like I do.
Translating to 'white cut chicken,' this term is often used metaphorically to describe someone or something that appears simple or unpretentious but is actually very good. It's a compliment about understated excellence.
Her talent is like white cut chicken, simple yet very genuine.
Short for 'Animal Crossing,' this term is used to refer to the popular game that emphasizes relaxation and community building. Players often share their in-game experiences and creative designs on various social media...
I’ve been playing Animal Crossing recently, and it feels so relaxing.
A term combining 'work' and 'alcoholic', used to describe someone who is addicted to work and often prioritizes it over personal life. It reflects cultural attitudes toward hard work and dedication.
He is a typical workaholic, always working overtime.
Literally meaning 'to turn one's face', this term describes a sudden change in attitude or treatment, often used in relationships or friendships. It's commonly used when someone turns against another person unexpectedly.
They were originally good friends, but recently they turned against each other.
Translating to 'wife fans', this term is used to describe fans who are extremely devoted to their favorite female celebrities. It reflects a passionate appreciation.
She is a wife fan of a certain star, following his updates every day.
Translating to 'not worth it in the world,' this phrase expresses the sentiment of feeling disillusioned or jaded about life or certain experiences. It reflects the struggles of modern existence.
These trivial matters really make people feel that life isn't worth it.
Literally 'reverse Spring Festival Gala,' this term is used to describe high-quality, often unexpected online performances or entertainment. It implies that there is a surprising or delightful turn of events that devi...
This program is truly a reverse Spring Festival Gala, stunning in ways I didn’t expect.
Meaning 'noble class,' this term is often used to describe people who live a luxurious lifestyle or exhibit elitist behavior. It's frequently used in discussions about social classes and affluence.
He always likes to talk about the lives of the noble class.
Translates to 'get out,' often used in a confrontational context, usually expressing strong disapproval or anger towards someone. It conveys a sense of demanding someone to leave immediately.
This behavior is too much; I really want to shout at him to get out!
Translating to 'beyond the syllabus', this term refers to someone who exceeds expectations or the standard requirements, often in a positive way. It's commonly used in educational contexts.
He exceeded expectations in the exam and performed excellently.
Literally 'little snowball', this term is used to describe a situation or problem that starts small but grows larger over time, often applied in a humorous manner.
This problem has grown like a little snowball; it's really hard to deal with.
This phrase translates to 'blessing of the human world', used to express gratitude for good fortune or happy moments in life. It carries a sense of appreciation for the little joys.
Having such a friend is truly a blessing in the human world.
Literally meaning 'ascend,' it is used when a concept, meme, or trend goes viral or reaches new heights of popularity. It conveys the idea of leveling up in social culture.
This video went viral instantly and became a hit.
This term means 'foolish' or 'stupid', often used as a humorous jab at someone's actions. It can be lighthearted or more critical, depending on the context.
I was really foolish to believe that rumor.
This term means 'speechless' or 'at a loss for words,' often used in situations of shock or disbelief, especially online.
Upon seeing this news, I was truly left speechless.
Translated as 'dirt-eating girl,' this term describes young women who, despite their love for fashion and beauty, often find themselves short on money and unable to afford their desires. It's used humorously and can r...
She always wants to buy new clothes, but now she can only be a 'dirt-eating girl.'
Master Xing — the affectionate honorific Chinese fans use for Stephen Chow (周星驰), combining his name character 星 with the respectful title 爷. Used online to refer to him with maximum reverence, or when quoting any of ...
I have watched every one of Master Xing's films more than ten times and never get tired of them.
Literally meaning 'to wet one's pants,' this term is used humorously to describe someone being overly scared or surprised, often in response to shocking news or events.
He almost wet his pants when he heard that news.
Translating to 'nine段', this term is used in games to indicate a very high skill level, based on the traditional ranking in Go.
His gaming skills have reached nine段; he’s truly a master.
Meaning 'directly ascend to heaven,' this phrase is used humorously to describe something so good that it elevates someone’s spirit or mood, or to express exaggeration about how great something is.
This dish is so delicious that after one bite I feel like I'm directly ascending to heaven!
Literally means 'drinking chicken soup'. It is used metaphorically to describe consuming motivational quotes or advice, usually in the context of self-help. The term has a humorous undertone when discussing clichés.
I don’t want to consume motivational quotes anymore; these sayings are too cliché.
Private key - The secret key that controls your crypto wallet.
Never tell anyone your private key!