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
Literally meaning 'strongly spoiling fans', this term reflects a celebrity or influencer's tangible actions to show appreciation for their fans, such as giving gifts or hosting events.
He showed real appreciation for his fans at the event; it was truly touching.
This term means 'forcefully cheering', used when someone supports or celebrates something out of obligation rather than genuine enthusiasm. It highlights the concept of social pressure in fandoms.
Even though this show isn't great, I still forced myself to cheer for it.
Translating to 'emotional intelligence', it refers to the ability to understand and manage emotions in oneself and others. It’s used to highlight the importance of interpersonal skills in social interactions.
Her 'emotional intelligence' is really high, and she can handle interpersonal relationships well.
Translating to 'fashion dog', this term describes someone who is obsessed with fashion and trends, often trying to keep up with the latest styles.
She's definitely a fashionista, always at the forefront of trends.
Translating to 'life is like a play', this phrase reflects the idea that life often feels scripted or theatrical. It suggests that individuals play different roles in various situations.
I feel that life is like a play; everyone has their own role.
The one I am waiting for is a world-class hero — the iconic line spoken by Zixia the Fairy in A Chinese Odyssey, describing her ideal man who will arrive on a golden cloud riding a seven-colored cloud. Used online to ...
She has too many requirements — truly waiting for a world-class hero riding a seven-colored cloud.
Translating to 'box bottom', this term describes something that is kept as a last resort or cherished item. It can refer to skills, secrets, or resources that one might only reveal in dire situations.
This song is my cherished collection, kept for special occasions.
Translating to 'halo', this term refers to an aura or presence that someone has, often when they appear particularly charming or charismatic. It can also apply to brands with a strong positive image.
His aura is truly irresistible, attracting many people.
Literally meaning 'shanzhai,' this term refers to fake or imitation products, usually of lower quality. It's commonly used in the context of discussing copies of popular brands or content.
These shoes are knockoffs, but they look pretty good.
Literally 'initial consonant of pinyin', this term is often humorously used to represent the struggle of learning Chinese phonetics. It reflects the amusing challenges faced by learners.
I’m stuck on the initials of pinyin; it’s really frustrating.
Literally meaning 'participant' or 'candidate,' this term is often used in competitive contexts, such as gaming or talent shows, to emphasize skill and prowess among individuals.
In this competition, she is one of the strongest participants.
This term translates to 'to join a sect halfway,' referring to someone who suddenly jumps into a trend or hobby without prior experience or knowledge. It often carries a humorous undertone about the superficiality of ...
He's a photographer who has joined the sect halfway; he hasn't really studied it.
Referring to 'moonlight tribe,' this term describes young people who spend their entire income each month, leaving little to no savings. It captures the financial habits of many modern urban dwellers.
As a moonlight tribe member, I need to learn about financial management.
Translating to 'knowledge point', this term emphasizes key pieces of information or insights, often used in educational contexts. It’s a way to highlight important facts in discussions or learning.
The knowledge points of this course are very important; everyone needs to remember them.
Anti-fan / Hater - Someone who actively dislikes a celebrity.
Those anti-fans always spread rumors.
This term refers to socializing or attending gatherings for professional or obligatory reasons. It often carries a connotation of being tiresome or obligatory rather than enjoyable.
I don’t want to attend this social obligation; it’s just too boring.
Literally 'little train,' this term is used to describe someone who is very energetic and playful, especially in social contexts. It conveys a sense of joy and liveliness.
She always brings the energy of a little train, making everyone happy.
This term means 'to eat vigorously' and is often used to describe someone who is enthusiastically enjoying their meal. It can also imply a sense of indulgence.
Seeing him eat so vigorously makes me want to join him.
Literally meaning 'to pull and step', this slang describes the act of belittling someone else in order to elevate oneself, often seen in competitive social media environments. It highlights trends of jealousy and riva...
She always belittles other bloggers to boost her popularity.
Translating to 'sense of possession,' this term expresses the feeling of ownership or attachment to something, often used in relationships or fandom contexts.
I feel a strong sense of possession, thinking this idol belongs to me.
Translating to 'the edge of collapse,' this term describes a state of extreme stress or frustration. It's often used humorously to express feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges.
I've been so busy with work lately that I'm almost 'on the edge of collapse.'
Meaning 'happy fat homebody', this term affectionately describes individuals who enjoy staying at home and indulging in leisurely activities, often humorously embracing their lifestyle. It reflects the joy of comfort ...
I'm just a happy fat homebody who loves watching dramas at home.
Literally 'chicken ribs', it refers to something that is not very useful or has minimal value, yet not completely worthless. It's often used to describe redundant efforts or things that take up time.
This task really feels like chicken ribs; it’s meaningless.
This term refers to 'hairy' or 'messy hair,' often describing a casual, carefree look. It can be endearing or used humorously when someone appears relaxed and unbothered.
Today, I just want to have a messy hairstyle, a bit casual.
Meaning 'poor dad', this slang often refers humorously to someone who is financially challenged, especially in contrast to the more aspirational 'rich dad' image. It reflects the difficulties of modern life and the pr...
I always feel like a poor dad, having to calculate my expenses every time.
Translating to 'Buddha jumps over the wall,' this term describes a luxurious, elaborate dish in Chinese cuisine. Online, it humorously refers to anything that is overly extravagant or luxurious.
This gathering was really extravagant; everyone was satisfied with the meal.
This term means 'light spending' and is often used in gaming contexts to describe players who make minimal in-game purchases. It indicates a casual engagement without heavy investment.
I made light spending in the game, only spent a little money.
Translating to 'not afraid, not afraid,' this phrase is often used to convey courage or reassurance in the face of fear or difficulty. It’s commonly used in a playful or lighthearted context.
Even with challenges ahead, I'm not afraid at all!
Meaning 'to seek friends', this term is used on social media platforms for looking to make new friends or connections, often for dating or expanding social circles.
I’m 'seeking friends' online, hoping to meet more people.
Translating to 'no heart, no lung', this term describes someone who is carefree and doesn't worry about the consequences of their actions. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts.
He is really carefree, always without worries.
Translating to 'mad dog,' this term is used to describe someone who is overly aggressive or out of control, often in arguments or debates. It carries a humorous connotation but can also imply seriousness.
During the discussion, he was like a mad dog, not listening to anyone else's opinions at all.
Referring to a symbol of selflessness and altruism, this term invokes the legacy of Lei Feng, a figure in Chinese culture known for his dedication to helping others. It's often used to describe charitable behavior.
She is like Lei Feng, always helping those in need.
Translating to 'shallow', this term is used to describe people or discussions that lack depth or seriousness. It often carries a negative connotation about one's understanding or viewpoint.
His perspective on this issue is too shallow.
Literally translating to 'stars and the sea,' this poetic term is often used to express a longing for exploration and adventure or an idealistic view of life. It invokes a sense of dreams and possibilities.
I hope to explore the stars and the sea in the future and see the beauty of the world.
Domineering CEO - Arrogant rich male love interest archetype.
This drama is another domineering CEO falling for me.
Means 'thick makeup and heavy adornment.' It is often used to describe overly done appearances in a somewhat humorous or critical tone, especially in social media contexts.
Her heavy makeup today shocked me a bit.
Translating to 'two-dimensional,' this term refers to anime and manga culture. It represents a fan base that deeply engages with fictional characters and stories.
He is an anime fan, watching cartoons every day.
Literally means 'little deer bumping around,' it describes the feeling of being lovestruck or excited, particularly in romantic contexts. It captures those fluttery feelings associated with infatuation.
When chatting with him, I feel like my little deer is bumping around.
Meaning 'resignation wave', this term describes the recent trend of employees voluntarily choosing to quit their jobs, often reflecting broader issues in workplace culture and employee satisfaction.
Many young people are joining the resignation wave in search of a better life.
Translating to 'comparatively chicken,' this term is used to describe someone who is overly cautious or fearful, often avoiding risks or challenges. It implies a lack of confidence or bravery in confronting situations.
He is always comparatively chicken, afraid to try new things.
It translates to 'all beings are equal.' This phrase is frequently used in discussions about social issues, promoting the idea of equality among people regardless of their background or status.
In this society, we should all strive for equality among all beings.
This term translates to 'mantis shrimp' and is used as a playful term to refer to someone who is lively or energetic. It's often used humorously in social contexts.
His personality is like a mantis shrimp; he's always full of energy.
Meaning 'without boundaries', this term is used to describe situations or relationships that lack clear limits, often leading to complications or confusion. It highlights the importance of establishing boundaries.
Our relationship is somewhat boundary-less and needs to be clarified.
Literally meaning 'stamp collection', this term has evolved to describe collecting experiences or relationships, often in reference to dating or social interactions. It humorously commodifies personal connections.
I'm collecting experiences; I recently made several new friends.
Translating to 'fire out of the circle', this term refers to content or people that become widely popular beyond their initial environment or niche. It captures the essence of viral trends.
This song has become widely popular; everyone is listening.
Translating to 'draw wind', this term describes someone behaving erratically or acting out of character, often due to excitement or sudden inspiration. It can carry a lighthearted or negative connotation, depending on...
He’s really acting out today, suddenly deciding to quit his job and travel.
Translates to 'internet slang' or 'network jargon,' this term refers to terms and phrases that are specific to internet culture. It highlights the rapid evolution of language in online communities.
Learning internet slang can help you understand how young people communicate better.
Translating to 'help me up', this phrase is used humorously to express the feeling of being overwhelmed, both physically and emotionally. It’s often accompanied by memes featuring characters who have fallen or failed.
Every exam makes me feel like saying 'help me up', it’s really painful.
Translating to 'big stove', this term humorously refers to someone who cooks very well, often used to praise a friend’s culinary skills. It highlights the appreciation of good food and cooking.
You made this dish so well; you’re a great cook!
Translating to 'difficult growth,' this term describes the struggles and challenges faced during personal development or maturity. It’s often used to encourage others to persevere.
Although difficult growth, I believe I will become better.