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
This term means 'paradise on earth' and is used to describe breathtakingly beautiful places. It can also convey a sense of tranquility and beauty in the chaos of life.
This place is truly a paradise on earth, making people reluctant to leave.
Smart contract - Self-executing code on the blockchain.
This smart contract had a vulnerability and was hacked.
Translating to 'earthy love words', this term refers to cheesy or corny pickup lines and romantic phrases that are often humorous or cringeworthy.
His cheesy pickup lines made me laugh uncontrollably.
Literally meaning 'awkward cancer', it humorously describes someone who feels intense embarrassment or discomfort in awkward situations. It's often used jokingly among friends.
He told a corny joke at the party, and everyone felt he had awkward cancer.
DeFi - Decentralized Finance, financial services on blockchain.
DeFi lets you borrow and lend without a bank.
Meaning 'impressive, my brother,' this expression is used to compliment someone's accomplishments or skills, often in a playful or sarcastic tone. It showcases a blend of admiration and disbelief.
You actually finished five buns in one go, impressive, my brother.
Translated to 'run off course', this term describes situations where discussions or plans go awry or deviate from the original topic. It reflects a humorous recognition of tangents.
Our meeting went off course again; everyone started talking about movies.
Fans - Followers or admirers of celebrities.
She has many fans.
Literally translating to 'breaking the dimensional wall', this term is used to describe crossing boundaries between different cultures or genres, often in fandoms. It reflects the blending of various interests.
This concert allows us to break the dimensional wall and experience different cultures.
Translating to 'boomerang', this term is used to describe a situation where one’s actions come back to affect them negatively, similar to consequences of one's own decisions.
His lies eventually became a boomerang, making him feel ashamed.
On-chain - Activities recorded on the blockchain.
On-chain data shows whales are buying.
Translating to 'grumpy older brother', it refers to someone who frequently expresses irritation or frustration, often in a humorous or exaggerated manner. This term is commonly used in gaming and social media to descr...
That streamer is such a grumpy older brother, always arguing over trivial matters.
This term mimics the sound of clapping or slapping and is often used in playful contexts, particularly to describe relationships or sexual innuendos. It's a humorous way to refer to physical intimacy.
They were intimate last night again, which is really enviable.
Referring to 'Mr. Translator', this term is often used sarcastically to denote someone who provides translations or explanations for complex concepts or language. It can also imply a sense of over-explanation.
He always plays the role of Mr. Translator in the group, explaining some technical terms to everyone.
Staking - Locking up crypto to earn rewards.
I staked my ETH, annual yield is 5 percent.
Translating to 'high probability,' this term is often used to discuss likely outcomes in various situations, from decision-making to predictions about events. It conveys a rational approach to uncertainty.
The outcome of this match is likely to be a draw.
Literally meaning 'to release or set free,' this term is often used to describe letting oneself enjoy life without constraints. It embodies a carefree spirit and a desire to break free from societal pressures.
This weekend, I want to really let myself enjoy life and relax by the beach.
Translating to 'lonely food critic', this term refers to someone who enjoys dining alone and takes pleasure in the experience, often sharing it on social media. It emphasizes a self-sufficient and independent attitude...
I’m going to be a lonely food critic tonight and enjoy good food at the restaurant by myself.
Literally meaning 'licking the screen,' this term describes the act of being infatuated with something seen on a screen, like a cute character or attractive person. It's used humorously to express admiration or obsess...
Seeing her photo, I really couldn't help but lick the screen.
Translating to 'benchmarking', this term is used in business contexts to compare products or services against leading competitors. It signifies striving for improvement and competitiveness.
Our product needs to benchmark against the top brands in the market.
Meaning 'to praise,' this term is commonly used in social media to express admiration for someone's achievements, appearance, or creation. It reflects a culture of appreciation and support.
I saw my colleague's work today and really wanted to praise him.
Translating to 'internet friend', this term describes someone you connect with online but may not have met in person. It reflects the impact of online relationships in modern life.
I share my life with my internet friends.
Translating to 'praise group,' this term describes online groups where members compliment one another, emphasizing positivity and encouragement, often in a humorous or ironic way.
I joined a praise group where everyone is very supportive.
Translating to 'leisure time', this term is used to describe moments dedicated to relaxation and enjoyment. It emphasizes the importance of taking breaks in a busy lifestyle.
I enjoy reading or watching movies during my leisure time.
Single dog - A humorous self-deprecating term for being single.
I am a happy single dog.
Bag holding - Being stuck holding an asset that dropped below your buy price.
I am bag holding, lost half my investment.
This term means 'super straightforward' and is used to describe someone who is blunt or direct in their communication. It can be appreciated for its honesty but might also be seen as tactless.
He always speaks very bluntly, which can easily offend people.
Translating to 'live long enough to see,' this phrase is often used to express astonishment at something unexpected or absurd. It highlights the idea that life can constantly surprise us.
I've lived long enough to see this; I can’t believe it happened.
Translating to 'be yourself', this phrase encourages individuals to embrace their true selves without conforming to societal expectations. It promotes authenticity and self-acceptance.
No matter what others say, remember to be yourself.
This slang term is borrowed from English and means to be baited or tricked into believing something, often with humorous or ironic implications. It's often used in discussions about clever deceptions.
I was really jebaited, thinking I would win.
Translating to 'home-cooked meal,' this term is used to describe something that happens regularly or is commonplace. It can refer to any ordinary situation.
Such arguments are just commonplace in our circle.
Translating to 'food blogger', this term refers to individuals who create content around food, including reviews, recipes, and cooking videos. It reflects the rise of food culture in social media.
She is a popular food blogger who shares many delicious recipes.
Meaning 'clearing to zero,' this term often describes starting fresh or over again, particularly after a failure or setback. It’s commonly used in contexts like lifestyle changes or resetting goals.
In the new year, I’ve decided to start fresh and reset.
Literally 'overtime dog', this term describes someone who frequently works overtime, often with a humorous or self-deprecating twist. It reflects the demanding work culture prevalent in many industries.
Recently, I've turned into an overtime dog, having to work overtime every day.
Literally 'heartbreak literature', it refers to a genre of emotional writing and memes that express feelings of sadness or unrequited love. It has become popular among youth who share their emotional experiences online.
Many people share heartbreak literature short videos on Douyin.
Meaning 'younger partner', this term is applicable in romantic contexts where one party is younger than the other. It's often used to describe relationships where age differences spark interest or humor.
I like younger boys; I find them particularly charming.
Meaning 'wave of unemployment,' this term describes the current trend of rising unemployment rates, often used in discussions about economic conditions. It reflects societal concerns about job markets.
The recent wave of unemployment has made many young people anxious.
Translating to 'level up and defeat monsters', this gaming slang describes overcoming challenges in life, such as work or personal struggles, similar to leveling up in video games. It emphasizes resilience and progress.
Facing difficulties at work is just like leveling up and defeating monsters.
Meaning 'to add salt', this term refers to someone who stirs up drama or adds a twist to a conversation, often making things more interesting or heated. It's used to describe someone who provokes reactions.
He always likes to add salt, making arguments more intense.
This expression means 'to open an umbrella,' metaphorically used to indicate seeking shelter or protection, often in a social or emotional context.
When facing difficulties, friends are always willing to provide shelter.
Translating to 'full firepower,' this term describes going all out or giving maximum effort in a task or situation. It reflects enthusiasm and commitment.
In this competition, we must go all out and leave no regrets.
Meaning 'useless wood,' this term humorously describes someone who feels incompetent or unable to succeed in a given situation. It can be used self-deprecatingly or towards others.
I feel like I've become useless lately.
Literally 'great escape,' this term refers to a clever or cunning way to avoid responsibilities or obligations. It can also signify a fun escape from routine life.
Today, I've decided to escape and go traveling with friends!
A metaphorical expression meaning 'robbing Peter to pay Paul', it describes a situation where one solves a problem by creating another. This is often used in discussions about resource management.
This plan is just robbing Peter to pay Paul; it has no long-term strategy.
This term means 'big head,' often used metaphorically to describe someone who is overly confident or has inflated self-importance. It carries a somewhat mocking tone.
He's really arrogant, thinking he knows everything.
Spreading dog food / PDA - Couples showing off their relationship, making singles jealous.
They are spreading dog food again, so sweet.
This term translates to 'youthful love' and is often used to describe innocent, sweet, or naive romantic relationships typically found in adolescence. It carries a nostalgic tone for first loves.
That youthful love still lingers in my memory.
Translating to 'hit the tear point', this term is used when something is especially moving or emotional, causing someone to cry. It is commonly used in contexts involving touching stories or media.
This song really hit the tear point; I've listened to it several times.
Let it rot - Giving up and accepting a bad situation, deliberately not trying anymore. Similar to 'I give up' or 'whatever happens, happens'.
I can't finish studying for the exam, I'll just let it rot.
Translated as 'push-pull', this term refers to the back-and-forth dynamic often found in romantic relationships where one person shows interest while the other is more reserved. It implies a game of attraction and ret...
There's always this push-pull between us; I don't even know what he wants.