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 literally means 'to jump a ticket' and is often used to describe a situation where someone fails to fulfill a promise or commitment. It conveys disappointment, particularly in social promises or events.
He failed to show up again today; it’s really disappointing.
This phrase means 'envy, jealousy, hatred' and is used to describe feelings of extreme jealousy towards someone else's success or happiness. It often implies a mix of admiration and resentment.
Her life is so good; all I can do is feel envy, jealousy, and hatred.
Translating to 'silly grin', this phrase refers to someone who is overly cheerful or carefree, often inappropriately so, creating a sense of annoyance in serious contexts.
It's too inappropriate for you to be grinning goofily here.
This phrase translates to 'just browsing casually' and is often used to downplay one's interest in something. It can be a polite way to indicate that someone is not seriously considering a purchase or commitment.
I'm just browsing casually and don't intend to buy.
Translating to 'not scientific,' this term is humorously used to describe something absurd or unbelievable. It’s often used to mock unrealistic scenarios.
This plot development is truly unbelievable; I can’t accept it.
This term means 'monthly salary' and is often used in discussions about income and financial stability. It reflects the growing concerns about financial pressures among young people.
My monthly salary isn't high, but I enjoy life.
Literally meaning 'old flavor,' this slang refers to traditional or nostalgic tastes and experiences, often in relation to food. It captures a sense of longing for the past and simpler times.
The cake from this shop has an old flavor that reminds me of my childhood.
Literally meaning 'exploding in place,' this phrase is used for dramatic expressions of frustration, annoyance, or excitement, often employed humorously in online conversations.
When I saw this news, I simply exploded in place!
Translating to 'little angel,' this term is used affectionately to refer to someone who is sweet, helpful, or innocent. It's often used in a light-hearted or humorous context.
You’re really a little angel; you’ve helped me solve a lot of problems.
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.
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!
Meaning 'to worship' or 'to bow down,' this term is often used humorously to express admiration for someone's skills or achievements, similar to saying 'I bow to you.'
His gaming skills really make me worship him.
Translating to 'ten-level carry', this term is used in gaming contexts to describe a skilled player who helps less experienced players succeed. It reflects a sense of teamwork and mentorship within gaming communities.
In this game, he really carried us to victory; it was so easy.
Translating to 'nine-square grid', this term refers to a popular format for sharing images, especially on social media. It often features curated photos or memes arranged in a grid.
This nine-square grid photo is very creative.
Translating to 'vegetable market,' this term is often used to describe chaotic or loud situations. It reflects a humorous comparison to the bustling and noisy atmosphere of traditional markets.
This meeting is like a vegetable market; everyone is shouting.
Literally means 'Douyin Tribe,' this term refers to people who are avid users of Douyin, often creating and sharing short videos. It reflects the cultural phenomenon of short video consumption in China, highlighting a...
I recently joined the Douyin Tribe and spend every day watching videos.
This phrase means 'though miles apart, we are close as neighbors.' It's often used to express the sentiment that distance does not diminish togetherness, especially in online relationships.
No matter how far apart we are, we're as close as neighbors.
Translates to 'various kinds,' used to describe a wide variety of things or people. It highlights the diversity present in a certain context.
There are all kinds of snacks here that will definitely satisfy you.
Translating to 'translation tone,' this term refers to the awkwardness or unnatural flow of speech that can occur when directly translating from one language to another. It's often used to describe poor or overly lite...
His Chinese has a bit of a translation tone.
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.
Literally meaning 'one dragon,' this slang refers to a service that is completely comprehensive, usually in the context of businesses offering a full suite of services. It reflects efficiency and convenience.
This hotel offers comprehensive services, which is very convenient.
Translating to 'explosive fire', this term describes something that has suddenly become extremely popular or viral, often within a short time frame.
This song has recently exploded in popularity; everyone is listening to it.
This phrase means 'I wouldn't go even if you beat me to death,' indicating a strong refusal or aversion to something. It is often used humorously to express disdain or disinterest in events or activities.
I wouldn't go to that gathering even if you beat me to death; it's too boring.
Translating to 'kneeling request', this term humorously implies begging for something, often used when someone is desperate for help or information. It expresses a playful sense of urgency.
I am kneeling in request for you to tell me the strategy for this game!
Translating to 'boss lady', this term refers to a woman who is authoritative or runs her own business. It's often used in a playful or respectful manner, acknowledging a female figure in charge.
She is a successful boss lady, and her business is thriving.
Healing - Content that is soothing and comforting.
This anime is very healing.
Short for 'mental split', this term humorously describes someone who displays seemingly contradictory behaviors or opinions. It often alludes to the complexities of personality or mental states.
She’s a bit of a mental split; today she really wants to go out, but tomorrow she doesn’t want to see anyone.
Meaning 'the life of a worker', this phrase expresses the struggles and hardships faced by employees in modern society. It’s often used to highlight the challenges of balancing work and personal life, resonating with ...
Facing all this pressure, I really feel like the life of a worker.
Translating to 'high energy', this term is used to describe something that is exciting or full of enthusiasm. It's often used in contexts like events, performances, or energetic content.
This concert is so high energy; the audience is very enthusiastic.
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.
Literally means 'to seek fun.' It indicates doing something just for enjoyment or amusement, often when it’s not serious.
I planned this trip just for fun; I didn’t think too much about it.
'Fake smile' refers to the act of pretending to be happy or agreeable while hiding true feelings of dissatisfaction or annoyance. It’s commonly used to describe situations where social niceties are maintained despite ...
At the gathering, I could tell she was putting on a fake smile.
Translating to 'Study Strong Nation,' this term refers to a Chinese educational app promoted by the government to encourage learning about national policies and history. It's often used in a tongue-in-cheek way to com...
Recently, everyone is using Study Strong Nation, like a studying machine.
This term means 'lonely warrior,' often referring to someone who stands up against adversity alone. It's used to highlight courage and determination, especially in difficult times.
In this highly competitive environment, he is a lonely warrior, steadfastly holding on to his beliefs.
This term means 'joke' or 'story' and refers to short, humorous anecdotes often shared online. They are typically punchy and designed to elicit laughter quickly.
This joke is so funny!
This term means 'same line of work' and refers to people who work in the same industry or profession. It often implies a sense of community and shared experiences.
It's really interesting for us colleagues to gather together.
Translates to 'divine unfolding,' used to describe a plot or story that has taken an unexpected but spectacular turn. It emphasizes creativity and surprise in narratives.
The divine unfolding of this drama left me speechless.
Literally means 'exploding eardrums'. This term is often used to describe music or sounds that are overly loud or shocking, especially in the context of viral videos or music clips on platforms like Douyin.
This song is simply explosive for the ears; I can't stop listening to it after just one play!
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.
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 'true fragrance warning', this term describes a situation where someone who was skeptical or critical of something ends up genuinely enjoying it. It humorously warns others about the unexpected enjoyment.
I didn’t like this movie before, but after watching it, true fragrance warning!
Translates to 'internet hot words', this term refers to trending phrases that gain popularity on social media, often seen as representative of current youth culture and communication.
Many new internet hot words have emerged this year.
Translating to 'against the heavens,' this phrase describes something that is exceptionally good or impressive, often used in the context of talent or achievement.
His performance in the competition was truly out of this world!
This humorous phrase translates to 'stable as a dog' and is used to describe someone or something that is unexpectedly reliable or cool under pressure. It conveys a sense of confidence.
This plan is as solid as a dog; I believe it will succeed.
Means 'crossing boundaries.' It describes situations where someone acts inappropriately or oversteps their limits. Often used in discussions about personal space or etiquette.
His words crossed a line; I think it’s inappropriate.
Literally meaning 'hard to endure', it is often used to describe feelings of discomfort, sadness, or emotional pain. It can refer to both physical and emotional sensations.
I've been feeling down lately; it feels particularly uncomfortable.
Translating to 'I am not a medicine god,' this term originates from a popular film and refers to someone who cannot solve all problems or save everyone. It's often used humorously to indicate limitations.
Don't treat me like a medicine god; I have my own troubles.
Meaning 'academic underachiever', this self-deprecating term is used by students who struggle academically or don’t excel in their studies. It can also be used humorously among friends.
I’m really an academic underachiever; I failed again on this exam.
Internet celebrity / Influencer - Someone famous on social media.
She is a food influencer with one million followers.
Translating to 'smash walnuts,' this phrase means to make a big effort for little reward. It's used to describe situations where one puts in a lot of work but gets minimal results, often used humorously.
This report was really a waste of effort; it took me a lot of time.