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 make a phone call,' this term is often used in a broader sense to indicate reaching out for help or making an important connection in a casual way. It showcases the importance of communication in...
If there's something going on, feel free to call me anytime.
Translating to 'wish tree', it refers to the practice of making wishes, typically in online communities or social media settings. It symbolizes hope and sharing dreams with others.
In this event, we can write our wishes on the wish tree.
Translating to 'do it beautifully,' this phrase is used to compliment someone on their excellent performance or effort in a task. It implies not just success but doing it with style.
You wrote this article really well; great job!
This phrase means 'just kidding' or 'playful banter', indicating that the speaker is joking around. It's used to lighten the mood after making a teasing comment.
You didn’t save any money this month? Just kidding, don’t take it too seriously.
Translating to 'mom's faction', this term refers to people who are extremely supportive and protective, similar to how a mother would be. It’s often used in a playful context to characterize overly doting friends or f...
She always worries about me; she’s really a mom’s faction friend.
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.
Diamond hands - Holding an asset no matter what, refusing to sell during dips.
Diamond hands are not afraid of dips, just hold.
Meaning 'immersive,' this term usually describes experiences like gaming or virtual realities where users feel deeply engaged. It's frequently used in discussions about video games, technology, and interactive media.
This game offers an immersive experience that makes me lose track of time.
Translates to 'avoid the thunder', a phrase used to warn others against potential pitfalls or bad experiences, particularly in consumer choices or dating.
This restaurant has poor reviews, so everyone should 'avoid the thunder.'
Literally meaning 'captivating', this phrase describes something that is fascinating and draws people in. It's often used in reviews of movies, books, or performances that have a strong impact on the audience.
The storyline of this book is captivating; I finished it in one go.
Literally translates to 'steady and secure', this term is used to describe decisions or actions that are considered safe or reliable. It conveys a sense of cautious optimism.
Choosing a steady and secure plan is wise.
Meme / Running joke - An inside joke or internet meme.
This meme is too old.
Great god / Pro - An expert or highly skilled person.
Please help, pros!
Translating to 'little dark horse', this term is used to describe a person or thing that unexpectedly gains popularity or success. It's often used in competitive contexts, such as sports or entertainment.
This singer unexpectedly became a dark horse, gaining fame shortly after debut.
This term simply means 'bored' and is used to express a lack of interest or excitement in an activity. It frequently appears in casual conversations and memes.
Today's class was so boring that I almost fell asleep.
Literally 'dog food,' this slang term refers to public displays of affection between couples that make single people feel left out or envious.
Their affection is like dog food, making me, a single dog, feel helpless.
Means 'tea art', but in internet slang, it refers to the way one cleverly navigates social situations or disputes, much like the artistry involved in preparing tea. It indicates skillful social maneuvering.
In this discussion, her social art is truly unparalleled.
This term means 'werewolf,' and in the gaming context, it often refers to players who deceive or manipulate others, particularly in games like 'Werewolf.'
In this round of the game, he plays the role of the werewolf; it's really interesting.
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.
This term means 'self-critique' or 'reflection' and is used when someone acknowledges their mistakes and takes responsibility for them. It emphasizes growth and accountability.
I've been reflecting on my work attitude lately.
Literally 'eating chicken', this term is commonly used in gaming cultures, particularly in reference to winning in battle royale games like PUBG, where the last player or team standing is said to be 'eating chicken'.
I won a chicken dinner yesterday; it felt amazing!
Literally means 'competing for affection,' often used to describe rivalry among friends or fans for someone's attention. It can be humorous or reflective of genuine competition.
There are always people competing for affection among us, but I know we’re all friends.
Literally meaning 'flirtatious operation', this term is often used in gaming and social contexts to describe clever or unexpected moves that impress others. It can also imply a sense of show-off or 'style' in executin...
His flirtatious operation stunned all the viewers.
The term means 'to pin at the top.' It refers to the act of keeping a post or message at the top of a social feed to ensure visibility, often used in online forums or social media.
I pinned this message to the top; everyone come and check it out!
Translating to 'cat faction', this term refers to people who are cat lovers, often jokingly used in debates about pets. It's a playful way to identify oneself with fellow cat enthusiasts.
I've always been a cat person; I have no interest in dogs.
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 'year of fate', this term refers to the Chinese zodiac year when one's sign reappears, often considered unlucky. It is often discussed in the context of superstition and personal challenges.
This year is my year of fate; I feel I need to be more careful.
Literally meaning 'return home,' this term is often used to express a desire to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, especially when referring to going back to one's hometown for a break or during holidays. It e...
I'm planning to go back home this weekend; I haven't seen my family in a long time.
Literally meaning 'drink water', in slang this term is often used to remind someone to take a break or to keep themselves hydrated, indicating care. It can also imply a need to pause in stressful situations.
Don't forget to drink water; even when busy, take care of yourself.
Meaning 'choose the day', this phrase indicates making decisions based on favorable circumstances or events. It often implies waiting for the right moment to take action.
I'm choosing the day, waiting for a good opportunity.
Meaning 'little heart', this term is used to express feeling overwhelmed by something cute or sweet, often in romantic contexts. It's an endearing way to communicate emotional responses.
Seeing this photo makes my little heart explode.
Translating to 'many things can pass', this phrase means to be tolerant or forgiving about various situations in life. It encourages acceptance and resilience.
Sometimes many things can pass; there's no need to worry too much.
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.
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.
Literally 'return to the furnace,' this phrase is used to describe a situation where something is sent back for improvement or rework, often in a humorous or critical context. It highlights the need for refinement.
This paper needs to go back for revising; many parts need to be rewritten.
Literally translating to 'cat slave,' this term is used to describe someone who is completely devoted to their pet cat, often at the expense of their own time and resources. It reflects the growing trend of pet owners...
I am really a cat slave; I buy delicious food for my cat every day.
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!
Meaning 'latte', this term is often used in online communities for its cultural relevance to coffee culture. It often represents a casual, trendy lifestyle.
Today I had a cup of latte, feeling very pleasant.
Translating to 'discount,' this term describes reducing the price of goods or services, commonly used in shopping and promotional contexts.
This store is having discounts today; let’s go check it out.
Translating to 'career line,' this term is typically used to refer to a woman's cleavage but has evolved to humorously describe a focus on career over relationships. It underscores the modern priorities of young women.
She is now focusing on her career line and has no time for dating.
Translating to 'loneliness syndrome', this term humorously refers to feeling lonely or isolated, especially in a social context. It suggests a humorous acceptance of one’s state of being alone.
Staying home for too long always leads to loneliness syndrome.
Translating to 'pearl milk tea,' this term refers to bubble tea, a popular drink that has gained international fame. The term is often used to symbolize youth culture and trendy lifestyles.
I want to go drink bubble tea this weekend.
This term means 'a face full of confusion.' It describes a person who looks bewildered and puzzled, often used humorously in situations where someone does not understand what's happening.
He looked totally confused when he heard the news.
Translating to 'peak showdown,' this term is used to describe a dramatic or exciting competition or confrontation, especially in games or sports. It conveys high stakes and an engaging contest between top competitors.
This match was truly a peak showdown; both sides went all out.
Meaning 'self-exile', this term refers to individuals who withdraw from society or certain social circles, often due to feeling overwhelmed or stressed. It reflects a desire for solitude in the face of societal pressu...
After months of self-exile, I finally decided to face life again.
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.
Translating as 'system crash,' this term describes an instance when something stops functioning properly, especially technology or software. It's often used humorously to describe failure or chaos.
My computer crashed again.
Instant kill / Sold out instantly - Something selling out immediately or defeating someone instantly.
This limited edition sold out instantly.
Meaning 'ordinary and unremarkable', this term is used to describe something that lacks uniqueness or special qualities. It's often used humorously to deflate expectations.
This dish looks ordinary, but it tastes great.
Translating to 'sound waves,' this term refers to the waves of sound, often associated with music or audio experiences at concerts. It’s used to describe the thrilling feeling of being immersed in music.
At this music festival, the sound waves really thrilled me.