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 '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.
Literally means 'working spirit.' This term refers to the determination and dedication of workers, especially in stressful jobs. It's often used humorously to describe people who work hard but feel unrecognized.
I work tirelessly in the office every day, just to promote the spirit of working hard.
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.
Translating to 'wilderness survival', this term refers to challenges or games where individuals must survive in extreme environments. It's often used in entertainment contexts to describe reality shows.
I've recently become obsessed with wilderness survival shows; they are so thrilling!
'King of competition', this term humorously refers to someone who is extremely competitive and strives to outdo others, particularly in academic or professional environments. It often highlights the pressures of socie...
In this company, he's truly the king of competition, and everyone feels the pressure.
This term refers to someone who is easily taken advantage of, often humorously denoting a 'sucker' for scams or poor deals. It highlights gullibility in financial contexts.
I really don’t want to be a sucker; I need to research carefully.
Fear of missing out - Anxiety about missing a profitable opportunity.
Do not FOMO, analyze calmly before buying.
This term means 'spoiling fans' and describes a celebrity's or influencer's affectionate treatment of their fans, often through interactions or special content.
Her live streams always spoil her fans, making people feel warm.
Translating to 'study well and improve every day', this phrase is often used to encourage diligence and progress, especially among students and young professionals. It embodies a positive growth mindset.
We must remember: study well and improve every day.
Translates to 'always sweet.' This term is often used to describe a romantic relationship that remains lovely and affectionate over time, used frequently in discussions about love and dating.
Their love story is always sweet and enviable.
Translating to 'giving strength', this term means something is impressive or powerful, usually referring to a person’s actions or contributions. It expresses admiration for someone's efforts.
His performance in the competition was really impressive.
Translating to 'only because you are too beautiful,' this phrase became popular from a viral song and is commonly used humorously to compliment someone attractive while implying that their beauty is the sole reason fo...
You receive so much praise, is it only because you are too beautiful?
Literally 'long-sitting tribe', this term describes people who have sedentary lifestyles, often due to office jobs or excessive gaming. It reflects growing concerns over health and lifestyle.
As a long-sitting tribe member, I need to exercise more.
Literally 'dark cuisine', this term humorously refers to bizarre or unappetizing dishes that often turn out poorly. It's commonly used in meme culture to mock culinary fails.
The dish I made was dubbed dark cuisine by my friends.
Translating to 'cloud dining,' this term is used to describe the phenomenon of enjoying online food content or live-streamed meals. It captures the experience of virtually sharing a meal with others.
I plan to enjoy 'cloud dining' tonight by watching a food livestream.
Translating to 'pill,' this slang term is used to express the feeling of despair or the sentiment that one is at a breaking point, often in a humorous way. It typically conveys a sense of exaggeration regarding stress...
Facing the exam, I really just want to give up.
Translating to 'no wonder', this phrase is used to express admiration or acknowledgment of someone's true capabilities or character, often following an impressive performance or result.
No wonder they're the champion; their performance was outstanding.
Translating to 'frozen age', this term describes the condition of appearing youthful regardless of one's actual age, often associated with beauty and health.
She is truly a frozen-age goddess; she doesn’t look old at all.
This term means 'to show off,' often in a slightly derogatory context. It is used to describe someone who flaunts their possessions, achievements, or lifestyle to gain attention.
He always likes to show off his new car, which is quite annoying.
Translating to 'aunt color', this term describes certain clothing colors or styles that are deemed unflattering or outdated. It’s often used in fashion discussions.
This color is a bit 'aunt color'; it doesn't really suit you.
A numeronym that refers to '9 to 5 work hours,' suggesting a traditional job with standard work hours. It often conveys a sense of mundane routine and can be used cynically.
I’m tired of the 9 to 5 life.
Airdrop farming - Actively hunting for free token airdrops.
Too many airdrop farmers lately, projects are getting smarter.
Translating to 'administrator', this term often refers to people who manage online forums or social media groups. It has a slightly humorous connotation when discussing strict or overly vigilant moderators.
This admin is too strict; they always delete posts.
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 'hot pot base seasoning', this slang refers to the essential mix of ingredients that create a flavorful hot pot. In internet culture, it's used humorously to describe something that enhances an exper...
This video is so funny, it’s like the hot pot base seasoning!
Translating to 'tear books,' this term refers to harsh criticism or deconstruction of any traditional ideas, usually in literature or media. It's a metaphor for challenging established norms.
This article makes me want to tear books; the viewpoints are too radical.
Translating to 'curious baby', this term affectionately refers to someone who is overly curious or inquisitive, often in a cute way. It captures an endearing quality.
She is such a curious baby, always wanting to know what others are doing.
Meaning 'hidden dragon, crouching tiger', this phrase describes individuals with great skills or talents who remain unrecognized. It signifies the potential that lies beneath the surface in various contexts, such as g...
This company is full of hidden talents, many of the employees are very capable.
Meaning 'open one’s mind', this slang refers to creative or out-of-the-box thinking. It often encourages innovative ideas or unconventional solutions.
In this project, we need to open our minds and find new methods.
Translating to 'reverse socializing', this term refers to engaging online instead of face-to-face, often related to introverted behavior.
I prefer reverse socializing; I'd rather chat online than meet in person.
Translating to 'how to resolve worries', this phrase is often used to reflect on sources of comfort or relief during stressful times. It’s commonly used in discussions on mental well-being.
Music is a good remedy for resolving worries.
Meaning 'showing off happiness', this slang phrase is used when someone shares pictures or stories about their happy moments, often on social media. It can convey genuine joy or sometimes be viewed as boastful.
She shows off her happiness on social media every day.
Translating to 'unwritten rules', this term refers to norms and expectations that exist behind the scenes, often in social, professional, or entertainment contexts. It's often discussed critically.
In this industry, unwritten rules are everywhere.
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.
A playful way of saying 'happy,' this term is used to express joy or satisfaction in a light-hearted manner. It often appears in memes and casual conversations.
I'm very happy today; my mood is especially good.
Translating to 'lost contact,' this term describes when someone goes silent or stops responding, often used in the context of relationships or friendships. It reflects a sense of abandonment or disconnection.
He has been out of contact lately, and I'm a bit worried.
Literally 'saving drama,' this term refers to stories that involve rescues or dramatic turnarounds. It often symbolizes hope in dire situations.
This movie is truly a saving drama, deeply touching.
DEX - Decentralized exchange for trading crypto without intermediaries.
Trading on a DEX does not require account registration.
Translating to 'strive or fight,' this term expresses the spirit of hard work and perseverance, often used in contexts of academic or career ambitions. It signifies a strong determination to achieve one's goals.
For the sake of my dreams, I will keep striving.
Meaning 'drifting to the north,' this slang refers to people who move to Beijing for work or study, often associated with the struggles and challenges of living in a big city.
As a person drifting to Beijing, I feel tremendous life pressure.
This term means 'serious' or 'earnest', often used to express determination or focus on a task. In internet culture, it can also imply sarcasm when someone pretends to take a trivial matter seriously.
You need to take this matter seriously.
Translating to 'to be in', it often refers to a state or condition someone is currently experiencing. It's commonly used when discussing life situations or challenges.
I am currently in a very confused stage of my life.
This term refers to someone who is perceived as having both high emotional and intellectual intelligence from birth. It’s often used sarcastically to criticize people who lack common sense or emotional understanding.
He’s really someone with low emotional and intellectual intelligence, as he’s terrible at socializing.
Literally meaning 'lock throat', this term describes a situation where someone is so overwhelmed or shocked that they can't respond or express themselves. It's often used humorously in reaction to unexpected news.
Hearing this news, I was completely taken aback.
Translating to 'good item recommendation', this phrase is often used in online shopping and social media to share product suggestions that the speaker finds valuable or enjoyable.
Let me make some good item recommendations for you; these products are truly useful.
Translating to 'sadness flowing upstream into a river,' this term captures a sense of deep sorrow or emotional struggle, often used to describe dramatic situations.
I've been feeling overwhelmed with sadness lately.
Meaning 'One Hundred Years of Solitude,' it refers to a state of profound loneliness or individualism, often with a cultural nod to Gabriel García Márquez's famous novel. It's used jokingly to describe someone who fee...
He seemed a bit like he was in a hundred years of solitude at the party.
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.
This term translates to 'sense of impact' and refers to the emotional aftermath following an unexpected disappointment or setback, especially in a competitive context.
The grade I just received gives me a sense of impact.
Refers to the five rings of the Olympic Games and symbolizes competition or the spirit of sports. It can also humorously refer to over-ambitious goals or dreams.
He keeps talking about his Olympic dreams, which is a bit unrealistic.