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
The term '888' is an internet slang often used to express applause or encouragement, similar to saying 'good job' or 'well done.' It's derived from the sound of the word for 'bar' (发, fā), which is associated with goo...
Everyone's performance was excellent; well done!
Translating to 'adorable pet,' this term refers to pets that are considered exceptionally cute and endearing. It is often used in the context of sharing photos or videos that showcase the charms of pets.
This cat is truly an adorable pet; who wouldn't like it?
This term can mean 'to flirt' or 'to hook up'. It describes casual romantic interactions and has a playful, cheeky tone. It's commonly used among young people in dating contexts.
They were flirting all night at the bar and looked very happy.
Literally means 'Mr. Almost.' This term describes someone who is overly casual or indifferent about details, often resulting in subpar outcomes.
He is always Mr. Almost when it comes to work, making it hard for people to trust him.
Meaning 'seeking help online', this term describes the act of asking for assistance or advice through social media platforms. It reflects the growing trend of seeking community help in digital spaces.
I am seeking help online, hoping to receive some advice.
This phrase translates to 'working is not possible' and is often used humorously to express the aspiration to avoid traditional work, reflecting a desire for financial independence without the constraints of conventio...
My goal is to quit my job; working is not possible for me.
Literally meaning 'meat from the heart', this affectionate term describes something or someone cherished deeply, like a beloved pet or child. It expresses a sense of attachment and protectiveness.
This puppy is my heart's meat; it's so adorable!
I love you — 520 sounds like 我爱你 (wǒ ài nǐ) in Mandarin. The most iconic Chinese number code for love, used in texts, gifts, and online chats. May 20th (5/20) has become an unofficial Valentine's Day in China because ...
Today is May 20th (520), I want to tell you — I love you!
To hustle; to grind for money; to chase the bag
No rest on weekends — I'm out here getting that money!
This term translates to 'silly' or 'naive', often used affectionately to describe someone endearingly foolish or innocent. It can convey warmth or teasing among friends.
You silly goose, it's truly a mix of laughter and tears.
GOAT / legend / the best forever — abbreviation of 永远的神 (yǒng yuǎn de shén), meaning "forever the god/legend." Used to describe someone or something as the absolute best — the Chinese equivalent of GOAT (Greatest of A...
This drama is literally YYDS — cried every single episode!
This Palace - imperious first-person pronoun used for comic effect
This Palace is in a fine mood today. You may all rise.
Planting grass - Being influenced to want to buy something.
After watching her video I want to buy it.
Translates to 'lottery' or 'drawing lots,' this term is used in online contexts where people join contests or giveaways. It reflects the excitement and chance of winning something.
Participate in this event for a chance to win a lottery; come and give it a try!
This poetic phrase translates to 'the autumn waters share a color with the endless sky', often used to express beauty and harmony in nature. It's used romantically to describe idyllic settings or feelings.
Watching the sunset on the beach gives me the feeling of beauty in harmony.
This phrase means 'so-so' or 'mediocre,' used to describe something that is not bad but also not great. It conveys a sense of indifference towards quality.
This movie is so-so; there's nothing special about it.
This phrase means 'hold on' and is often used to encourage someone to persevere through tough times. It’s popularly used in social media posts to show support for friends and followers going through challenges.
Life is tough, but we need to hold on!
Translating to 'fog of the human world,' this philosophical term refers to confusion or lack of clarity in emotional or social situations. It expresses the complexity of human relationships.
In love, we often easily fall into the fog of the human world.
Meaning 'relay,' this term is used to describe passing on responsibilities or tasks in a collaborative manner. It reflects teamwork and collaboration in achieving a goal.
We need to relay tasks to each other to complete this project.
Meaning 'to speculate', this term is used in discussions where opinions or theories about uncertain outcomes are shared. It emphasizes conjecture based on limited information.
This is my speculation; what do you think?
This phrase means 'not unreasonable,' used to express that while something may not be ideal, it’s understandable or justifiable. It’s often used in discussions to show acceptance of imperfect situations.
Facing this pressure, it is not unreasonable for them to choose to give up.
Meaning 'with this comes,' it’s often used to express that certain consequences or effects follow a specific action or event. It captures the cause-and-effect relationship common in discussions.
Work hard, and with this comes rewards.
Bye bye — 88 sounds like 拜拜 (bāi bāi), the Mandarin phonetic borrowing of the English "bye bye." The quickest and most universal numeric farewell in Chinese digital communication.
Going offline — bye bye!
Meaning 'short video traffic generation', this term is used in marketing contexts to refer to strategies that attract an audience using short video formats. It highlights the trend of using quick, engaging content to ...
We need to use short videos to attract traffic for product promotion.
Going to zero - When a cryptocurrency loses all its value.
This coin went to zero, all invested money is gone.
Translating to 'the former serfs sing,' this term humorously describes someone who has recently achieved success or improved their circumstances, often used in a light-hearted, celebratory context.
I just got promoted; the former serfs sing, let’s celebrate together!
Translating to 'super cute', this term highlights affection or admiration, often directed at pets, characters, or anything seen as adorable. Its usage reflects a widespread appreciation for cuteness.
This puppy is super cute; I can't help but want to hug it.
Translating to 'leg essence,' this term is often used to describe people, typically women, with particularly attractive legs. It highlights an appreciation for physical beauty, especially in fashion contexts.
She really has gorgeous legs; she looks great in anything.
Translating to 'announce in advance', this term is often used when someone reveals information or news prematurely, typically before an official announcement. It can be humorous or serious, depending on context.
The cast list for this new drama was announced in advance.
Translating to 'everyone's darling,' this term describes someone who is irresistibly charming and attracts many admirers. It can be used for both genders and is often used in romantic contexts.
He is truly everyone's darling; everyone likes him.
This phrase means 'really impressive' or 'awesome.' It is often used to compliment someone's skills or achievements, particularly in competitive fields like sports or academics.
Your speech was really impressive; everyone loved it.
Meaning 'eye-catching' or 'striking', this term is used to describe something that stands out or is impressive, often in a visually appealing way. It's used to compliment design, aesthetics, or performances.
This design is really eye-catching and has attracted many people's attention.
This term literally means 'heart blockage' and is used to express feelings of emotional distress or disappointment, often in a light-hearted manner. It indicates being overwhelmed by negative emotions.
Seeing that news really upset me; it was too hard to handle.
Literally meaning 'to cover the sky with one hand', this term describes someone who has a significant influence or control, often in a negative context. It reflects a sense of overreach or manipulation.
His power in the company makes people feel like he covers the sky with one hand.
Meaning 'the future is promising,' this term expresses hope and positivity about what lies ahead. It’s commonly used to encourage others or to express optimism.
Although there are difficulties now, I believe the future is promising.
Meaning 'to question' or 'to doubt', this term is used when expressing skepticism about something, often in the context of discussions or news online. It reflects critical thinking in digital conversations.
I have some doubts about this news; I don't know if it's true.
This term means 'trend' and is frequently used to describe changes in culture, fashion, or social media. It signifies awareness and observation of current developments.
I enjoy keeping up with current trends, especially in the fashion industry.
Translating to 'chicken soup literature', this term refers to overly sentimental or motivational writing that aims to uplift readers. It can be used sarcastically to critique overly simple or cliché advice.
These chicken soup articles make me feel bored.
Happy water - Coca-Cola or sugary drinks.
Get me some happy water!
Translating to 'little crow,' this term is used affectionately to describe someone who is cute but also a bit mischievous. It captures a playful spirit and is often used in friendships or romantic contexts.
What are you up to now, you little crow?
Literally meaning 'big-headed doll,' this term describes people who have an exaggerated sense of self or behave in an overly cute manner. It’s often used affectionately to criticize someone acting childish.
Stop acting like a big-headed doll.
Literally meaning 'little fresh meat', this term is used to describe young and handsome male celebrities or idols. It conveys admiration and sometimes envy regarding youthful attractiveness.
This young idol is very popular in the TV series.
This term refers to the practice of 'anti-recommendation'—essentially warning friends against something instead of promoting it. It often indicates a critical view on something that seems overrated.
I would anti-recommend this movie; it’s really not good.
This term is akin to saying 'so-and-so' or 'someone' and is used to refer to unnamed people or things. It often appears in discussions when the actual names or specifics are not relevant or known.
So-and-so said today’s meeting has been canceled.
Fat otaku - Self-deprecating term for lazy homebody.
I am just a happy fat otaku.
Means 'must-buy list,' often used in the context of shopping, especially for beauty and lifestyle products. It's a trending term in consumer culture.
This brand's skincare products are recommended as a must-buy list on Xiaohongshu.
Literally meaning 'pressure mountain big,' it describes feeling overwhelmed or heavily stressed. It's a humorous exaggeration that has become popular among young people.
Work and studying make me feel overwhelmed; I want a holiday.
Meaning 'lively' or 'agile', this term is used to describe someone or something that is dynamic, energetic, or charmingly animated. It’s often used in performance or artistic contexts to celebrate expression.
This dance performance is really lively and captivates the audience.
Translating to 'various styles of marketing', this term refers to innovative and creative marketing techniques that engage audiences in entertaining ways. It reflects the need for originality in a crowded market.
There are more and more brands using various styles of marketing now; it’s really interesting.
This means 'crying emoji,' commonly used to express exaggerated sadness, humor, or dramatic reactions in conversations. It reflects a playful way to convey emotions online.
When I saw this bad news, I sent a crying emoji.