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 translates to 'coding monkey.' This term is often used to refer to software developers in a somewhat self-deprecating or humorous way, suggesting that they are just following orders.
As a coding monkey, I write code every day.
This term translates to 'atmosphere group' and refers to individuals who are skilled at creating a lively or enjoyable environment, particularly in social situations. It highlights the social dynamics within groups.
She always manages to be the atmosphere maker at parties.
Literally 'to hang and beat', this slang refers to decisively defeating someone, often in a competition or argument. It suggests an overwhelming victory or dominance.
In this match, they completely dominated their opponent with no suspense at all.
Translating to 'don't ask me', this phrase is typically used as a humorous way to avoid a question or to imply that the answer is complicated or embarrassing. It's often a part of meme culture.
My life has been too complicated lately; don’t ask me.
Public chain - A public blockchain network anyone can use.
Ethereum is one of the largest public chains.
This simple term means 'to chat', but it’s commonly used in a context where there’s an expectation of casual, friendly conversation, often online or via messaging apps.
We can chat whenever we have time.
Translating to 'internet thinking,' this term refers to a mindset or approach that leverages the principles of connectivity, flexibility, and innovation associated with the internet. It's used to describe businesses o...
Modern enterprises must possess internet thinking to keep pace with the times.
Literally means 'big sell-off', used to describe someone who is overly dramatic about their failures or losses, often in a playful way. It can be used to mock excessive emotional displays.
Every time he does poorly on an exam, he dramatically sells off his sadness.
Translating to 'iron friends,' this term refers to close and dependable friends. It conveys a sense of loyalty and trust among friends.
We are iron friends, and we support each other no matter what happens.
Literally 'fake monk', this term describes someone who pretends to be knowledgeable or wise but is actually not. It highlights the gap between appearance and reality.
He’s just a fake monk in this field; don’t listen to him.
Translating to 'update,' this term is used to convey the idea of refreshing content or information, particularly in digital platforms and social media.
My social media needs an update; I haven't posted in a long time.
Literally 'ten yuan party,' this term humorously describes people who tend to buy very inexpensive items or have a very limited budget. It reflects a playful approach to frugality.
I’m not just a ten yuan party; sometimes I buy more expensive things.
Translating to 'the myriad of human conditions,' this term reflects the diverse experiences and emotions people encounter throughout life. Often used in discussions about human nature and society.
Through this film, we see the myriad of human conditions; it’s thought-provoking.
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.
Translating to 'confusing behavior,' this term is used to describe actions that are puzzling or perplexing, often in a humorous or mocking context. It’s frequently used in meme culture to comment on strange online tre...
This kind of confusing behavior really leaves people speechless.
Translating to 'wasting youth', this term reflects the concern over not making the most of one's young years, often used in discussions about time management and life choices.
I don't want to waste my youth, so I've decided to start learning new skills.
This term translates to 'loss culture' and refers to a subculture characterized by pessimism and a humorous outlook on life's struggles. It's often used to bond over shared feelings of loss or disappointment.
The recent loss culture trend is interesting; everyone is sharing their sadness.
This term means 'health preservation' and refers to practices aimed at maintaining or enhancing one's health, including diet, exercise, and lifestyle choices. It has gained popularity among young people seeking a bala...
Nowadays, everyone talks about health preservation; I also want to start eating healthily.
Speechless - Having no words due to shock or disbelief.
His actions left me speechless.
Literally translating to 'featherweight,' this term is used to describe someone or something that is light or insignificant, often in a joking context about people's capabilities or achievements. It can signify a lack...
His work performance is truly insignificant; it’s hardly worth mentioning.
Literally translating to 'climbing mountains', this term is often used to describe taking on a challenge and pushing oneself, both physically and metaphorically, in various life aspects. It conveys determination and e...
Every time I face difficulties, I remind myself to keep climbing the mountains.
Best girl friend / BFF - A close female friend, like a sister. Often used between women who are extremely close.
She's my best girlfriend, I tell her everything.
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.
Awkward / Cringe - Feeling embarrassed or uncomfortable.
This situation is so awkward.
Translating to 'single since birth,' it humorously denotes someone who has never been in a romantic relationship, often used lightheartedly.
I’ve been single since birth for twenty years.
Translating to 'happy learning', this term emphasizes the joy of learning rather than focusing solely on grades or outcomes. It promotes a positive mindset about education and self-improvement.
I enjoy finding resources online for happy learning to improve myself easily.
Translating to 'gathering fans,' this term is used to describe the act of attracting followers, often through charm or talent, particularly in the context of celebrities or influencers. It indicates a growing fanbase ...
This singer's charm has truly gathered countless fans.
Literally 'brain hole,' this term describes a sudden burst of creativity or an interesting idea that seems out of the blue. It emphasizes imaginative thinking and unexpected insights.
Her creative ideas always open my eyes.
Literally meaning 'dog head saves life,' this slang is often used humorously to express that a situation is so dire that it can only be saved by something or someone absurd, like a dog’s head.
This kind of joke is just so absurd, I can't stop laughing.
The Chinese transliteration of Twitter, it is frequently used in discussions about social media trends, especially in reference to news or viral topics. It signifies a platform where quick, real-time updates occur.
The topics on Twitter today are really interesting.
Literally meaning 'holding a certificate to take up a post', this term refers to having the necessary qualifications or skills for a job or task. It's often used humorously to indicate that someone is underqualified o...
I'm just an amateur; even with a certificate, I might not do well.
This term means 'popularity king', referring to a person, typically an influencer or celebrity, who has a massive following and influence. It indicates someone who is widely favored by the public.
He is definitely the popularity king in this show.
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.
Translating to 'programming ability,' this slang is often used humorously to refer to someone's technical skills, especially in coding, but can also denote general problem-solving skills.
This project really tested my programming skills.
Escape singlehood - Starting a romantic relationship.
I finally got into a relationship!
Sea king / Player - Someone who dates many people simultaneously.
He is a player with many backups.
Translating to 'traffic star', this term refers to celebrities or influencers who attract a lot of online attention, often because of their social media presence rather than traditional talent.
He can definitely be considered a traffic star now, with his fan count skyrocketing.
Translating to 'aesthetic fatigue,' this term describes the feeling of being overwhelmed or bored by a repetitive style or trend. It reflects the fast-changing nature of beauty standards in media.
Today's fashion makes me feel aesthetic fatigue; it’s always the same style.
Literally meaning 'to create events', this term implies stirring up trouble or causing drama, often in a playful or mischievous manner. It can refer to initiating gossip or controversies.
He always likes to stir up trouble; it’s really frustrating.
Literally means 'Chinese standard'. It's used to refer to a certain level of quality or expectation, often humorously to downplay something that doesn't meet higher standards.
This dish is made to Chinese standards, though the taste is just okay.
Translates to 'academic overlord,' this term describes students who excel academically and are often seen as role models. It reflects admiration for academic success within Chinese culture.
He is an academic overlord; he can get perfect scores in all subjects.
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.
This term means 'small margin' or refers to the minor things in life that bring joy or happiness, often used in the context of appreciating life's little pleasures. It's about finding joy in the mundane.
The sunlight and coffee every day are my small joys.
Literally meaning 'appetizing with rice,' this term is used to describe content that is enjoyable while eating, often referring to videos or shows that enhance the dining experience.
This show is really enjoyable to watch while eating; I always want to watch it during meals.
Bronze - Lowest rank, used to mock bad players.
Your moves are so bronze level.
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.
This term means 'live-streaming to sell goods' and represents the trend of influencers and sellers promoting products in real-time online. It's a significant aspect of e-commerce in China.
The live-streaming sales for this brand are very effective; sales are high.
Literally 'returning horse gun,' this term refers to a strategic move or comeback, often used in debates or discussions. It reflects tactical thinking and clever retorts.
He used a clever comeback in the debate to successfully counter the opponent's argument.
Literally meaning 'cannot continue watching', this phrase is used to express one's inability to watch or tolerate something any longer, often due to discomfort or embarrassment.
This movie is so boring that I can’t continue watching.
Literally 'social flower', this term is used to describe someone who is very sociable and enjoys mingling in social situations. It can have a light-hearted or teasing connotation.
She is really a social butterfly, always attracting many people at parties.