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
Translating to 'the self-cultivation of the working class', this phrase is used to express the need for self-improvement and mental resilience among workers. It reflects a cultural recognition of the pressures faced b...
To cope with workplace pressure, I've started learning the self-cultivation of the working class.
Translates to 'explosive increase in internet celebrities'. It refers to the sudden rise of online influencers or popular figures in a short time.
Recently, this video caused many people to become internet celebrities in a short time.
This phrase translates to 'update and upgrade', referring to the rapid evolution of technology or trends in society. It's often used in discussions about consumer products or cultural trends.
This phone is due for an update and upgrade.
Translates to 'experienced driver.' It is used to refer to someone who is very knowledgeable or skilled, especially in a humorous or cheeky context. Often used to describe people with a lot of experience in relationsh...
He is really an experienced driver, knowing how to deal with these complex matters.
Literally 'Buddha-like health maintenance,' this term refers to a relaxed and indifferent approach to health and well-being. It suggests that one should not stress excessively about health but maintain a balanced life...
I’ve been trying a relaxed approach to health maintenance lately and feel much easier.
Literally meaning 'to hold down the finale,' this term refers to the most exciting or important part of an event or performance. It signifies a peak moment that leaves a lasting impact.
The finale of this performance was so exciting that the audience stood up and applauded.
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 'invincibly cute', this term is used to describe someone or something that is irresistibly adorable. It’s often used in online comments to express affection.
This puppy is irresistibly cute; I just want to hold it forever.
Translating to 'bringing goods,' this term is used in e-commerce to describe influencers or sellers who promote products via livestream or social media, directly facilitating sales. It reflects the rise of influencer ...
This streamer really knows how to 'bring goods'; many people followed and bought what they advertised.
Means 'talkative person.' It describes someone who loves to talk and chat, often used playfully or affectionately.
He is so talkative; there are always endless topics to discuss with him.
Meaning 'the years are peaceful and good', this phrase conveys a sense of contentment and tranquility in life, often reflecting an appreciation of the simple things.
In this small village, the years are peaceful and good; life is beautiful.
Translating to 'difficult growth,' this term describes the struggles and challenges faced during personal development or maturity. It’s often used to encourage others to persevere.
Although difficult growth, I believe I will become better.
Meaning 'homebody culture', this term refers to the lifestyle and habits of people who prefer staying at home, often engaging in activities like gaming, watching movies, or reading. It celebrates the comfort of home l...
I think homebody culture is cool; we should stay home together.
This is the Chinese word for 'meme,' used to describe humorous images or videos that spread rapidly online. It derives from the English term and often includes cultural references that resonate with netizens.
This meme is truly a classic!
Literally meaning 'tearing each other apart', this slang describes intense arguments or conflicts, especially among women. It often has a humorous or dramatic connotation.
They are tearing each other apart on social media; it’s really lively.
Meaning 'interaction,' this term is used in the context of social media engagements, like comments, likes, and shares. It highlights the importance of communication and connection between users.
Our post has a high interaction rate; everyone is discussing it.
Literally translates to 'to become a monk halfway through the journey,' used to describe someone who suddenly starts pursuing a new interest or career, especially later in life. It can carry connotations of unexpected...
She just started learning guitar; it's truly a case of becoming a monk halfway through the journey.
Awkward / Cringe - Feeling embarrassed or uncomfortable.
This situation is so awkward.
Translating to 'side gig', this term refers to individuals who take on additional jobs or freelance work to supplement their income. It's commonly used among millennials and Gen Z workers.
I’m taking on freelance work to save money; I’m a side gig worker now.
This term translates to 'forced to spend money', referring to the pressure gamers feel to spend money in mobile games to gain advantages. It highlights a common frustration in gaming communities.
This game forces spending too much; I can’t take it anymore.
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.
Meaning 'exclusive' or 'dedicated,' this term conveys a sense of uniqueness or being tailored for someone or something. It’s often used in branding and marketing contexts.
This product is exclusively customized; only members can buy it.
Meaning 'selling tragedy', this term describes someone who exaggerates their misfortunes to gain sympathy or attention. It highlights the phenomenon of using personal hardships for social leverage.
She always sells tragedy, trying to garner everyone's attention.
This translates to 'running wildly' and is used to describe someone rushing or hurrying, typically with a sense of urgency. It can refer to both literal running and metaphorically rushing through life.
I rushed to the event over the weekend; it really wore me out.
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 means 'pretending to be indifferent,' referring to the act of displaying a cool or uninterested demeanor while actually being affected by something. It's often used in online narratives about relationships and so...
He pretends to be indifferent, but deep down, he's already panicking.
Translating to 'every day onward and upward', this phrase encourages continuous self-improvement and positive progress in life. It reflects an optimistic attitude towards personal growth.
I hope everyone can strive onward and upward every day, pursuing the life they want.
Translating to 'celebrate wildly', this term describes a festive and joyous atmosphere, often used during parties and gatherings. It encapsulates the spirit of celebration and enjoyment.
During the New Year, everyone celebrates wildly, creating a lively atmosphere.
Meaning 'turning the world upside down', this phrase is used to describe dramatic changes or transformations, often in relation to personal growth or societal shifts.
This reform will dramatically change our lives.
This term means 'busy inside' and refers to someone who is preoccupied with their inner thoughts or emotions, often feeling overwhelmed or distracted.
Today at work, I was really busy inside; I felt a bit distracted.
Meaning 'poor quality' or 'bad,' this term is often used to criticize an unsatisfactory performance or product. It highlights disappointment or dissatisfaction.
This movie is really bad; I don’t recommend it.
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!
This slang translates to 'wit duel,' used to describe situations where individuals engage in clever banter or arguments, often filled with humor and sarcasm. It showcases the art of verbal sparring.
They were engaging in a wit duel in the comments; it was very fun.
Translating to 'prejudice', it is used to describe biased attitudes toward certain groups or topics, often challenged in online discussions.
We should eliminate prejudices regarding this topic.
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 'small regrets', this term refers to minor disappointments or imperfections in life that are usually accepted with a sense of humor or nostalgia.
This dish is a bit salty; it’s truly a small regret.
This term translates to 'must-have for watching dramas'. It refers to items or snacks that enhance the experience of binge-watching series, often shared in social media posts. It's commonly used in the context of disc...
You always have to prepare snacks that are must-haves for watching dramas.
This term translates to 'soul entering,' and it signifies immersing oneself deeply into a virtual world, such as video games or online communities. It highlights a sense of escapism or deep engagement.
When playing this game, I really felt a sense of immersion.
Translating to 'water retrograde,' this term is borrowed from astrology to describe periods when everything seems to go wrong. It's often used humorously to blame bad luck.
Recently, it's really been a water retrograde; I've encountered a lot of trouble.
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!
This term means 'explosive temper' and describes someone with a quick temper who easily gets angry or frustrated. It tends to be used humorously to portray exaggerated reactions.
He just exploded with anger when he heard that news.
This term means 'hard to deal with', often used to describe a person or a situation that is complicated or troublesome. It's commonly used in discussions about interpersonal relationships or difficult scenarios.
He is really a hard person to deal with.
Meaning 'One Hundred Years of Solitude,' it refers to a state of profound loneliness or individualism, often with a cultural nod to Gabriel García Márquez's famous novel. It's used jokingly to describe someone who fee...
He seemed a bit like he was in a hundred years of solitude at the party.
This term translates to 'saving worry' and describes someone or something that is easy to manage or worry-free. It's used to express relief at an uncomplicated situation.
Having a friend like this is truly worry-free.
Literally meaning 'human evaporation', it describes someone who suddenly disappears from social media or ceases communication without explanation. It captures the abruptness of modern interactions.
He has evaporated from the world recently; no one can find him.
Literally 'normal temperature,' this term refers to situations or people that are modest or down-to-earth, often used in contrast to those who are overly extravagant. It's a way of promoting authenticity.
He’s a very down-to-earth person and always stays authentic.
This term means 'golden phrase' and refers to a memorable or impactful quote, often used in speeches or writings. It denotes something that resonates deeply with people.
His speech contained many golden phrases that left a deep impression.
Literally means 'green vegetables'; in slang, it refers to someone who is easily pleased or not demanding in relationships. It's often used humorously or lightly in discussions about dating.
Her expectations of her boyfriend are as simple as green vegetables.
Literally meaning 'resignation letter', it is often used in a humorous or dramatic context when someone is ready to quit their job, sometimes jokingly shared on social media.
I wrote a resignation letter last night, but I haven’t decided whether to submit it today.
Screen flooding - When one topic dominates social media feeds.
This news flooded everyone screens.