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 'self-doubt,' this term captures feelings of uncertainty about one’s abilities or worth. It resonates with young adults facing pressures of success and often appears in motivational contexts.
In the workplace, self-doubt is a common feeling shared by many.
Translating to 'carnival,' this term is used to describe wild, festive parties or celebrations that are marked by unrestrained fun and enthusiasm. It's common in social media discussions about nightlife or events.
There's a carnival this weekend; everyone come join!
Meaning 'to mock' or 'to ridicule,' this term is often used in internet culture to describe clever comebacks or sarcastic remarks aimed at someone or something.
His comment is just full of mockery!
Cross-chain - Moving assets between different blockchain networks.
Cross-chain bridges are frequently attacked by hackers.
This phrase translates to 'lying down to make money', implying easy or passive income. It's frequently used in discussions about side hustles or investments that require little effort.
Now many people hope they can make money passively.
Translating to 'The Great Sage Equal to Heaven,' this term refers to the character Sun Wukong from Chinese mythology. It's often used humorously to describe someone who's rebellious or acts freely.
He always acts recklessly like the Great Sage Equal to Heaven.
Translating to 'see through', it is used when someone can understand the underlying truth of a situation or person, often implying a sense of wisdom.
She saw through his lies.
Exposure freak; used to describe someone who enjoys sharing personal details, potentially too much, in public forums. It can be humorous or critical.
She’s really an exposure freak, sharing everything online.
Translating to 'Singles' Day,' this term refers to a Chinese holiday celebrated on November 11th, where single people celebrate their status, often with shopping events. It reflects a cultural shift in how singlehood ...
Singles' Day is coming; businesses will have promotions again!
Literally meaning 'ride the wind and break the waves,' this phrase conveys determination and courage in overcoming difficulties. Popularized by inspirational quotes and trending in motivational contexts.
On the path to pursuing our dreams, we must ride the wind and break the waves.
This phrase means 'decisively killing and punishing,' often used to describe someone who is ruthless or decisive in their actions, especially in competitive environments.
In this competition, he acted decisively and mercilessly.
Meaning 'study dog,' this term affectionately labels someone who is diligent and serious about their studies or work. It’s often used humorously among students.
She is such a study dog; she always does her homework seriously.
While literally meaning 'to fight,' this term is often used in online contexts to describe heated arguments, particularly in comment sections or forums.
There's another fight happening in that discussion forum.
Translates to 'youth is invincible,' this phrase celebrates the energy and potential of youth. It's often used in motivational contexts or by younger generations to express confidence.
We are all invincible young people!
Literally meaning 'to carry water,' this term refers to the act of mediating or supporting one party in a situation, particularly during conflicts or debates. It can imply being noncommittal and only providing support...
When my friends were arguing, I just carried water, hoping to keep the peace.
Translated as 'heart explosion', it describes an intense feeling of excitement or infatuation, often used in romantic contexts.
Seeing her smile made my heart explode.
Meaning 'one reaps what one sows,' this phrase is often used to indicate that someone's misfortune is a result of their own actions.
The troubles he faced today were truly self-inflicted.
Literally translates to 'water things,' it describes spreading rumors or gossip that lacks substance. It’s often used to call out baseless claims.
The rumors you've heard are completely unreliable.
Literally 'black history', this term refers to embarrassing past events or mistakes that a person may want to keep hidden. It's used in a humorous way, especially when discussing someone’s awkward moments.
Let me share my black history; I'm really embarrassed.
Meaning 'to compare', this term is generally used in a negative context when people measure their success or possessions against others. It reflects societal pressures and competitiveness.
In this society, the phenomenon of comparison is becoming more serious.
This phrase literally means 'let's go together,' often used to express solidarity and companionship in various contexts. It's a common expression used among friends or in social engagements.
Let's go together; don't go alone.
Protecting life — used both in its traditional Buddhist sense of non-harm to all living beings and as a modern hashtag for animal rescue and conservation content. Spread widely as a caption for wildlife rescue videos ...
This is a genuine act of protecting life — not done for views.
Translating to 'lifting heavy as if light,' this term describes handling complex or difficult tasks with ease and confidence. It can be used to commend someone's skills or attitude.
She handles this project with such ease; it's impressive.
This term means 'warm' or 'buzzing with excitement,' often used to describe something that is fresh, trending, or lively, particularly in social or culinary contexts.
The dishes at this new restaurant are really buzzing with excitement; they taste great.
Literally 'little cloud crane,' this term is a cute designation for someone who appears gentle and serene. It’s often used to describe a person or character with a soft demeanor.
She’s like a little cloud crane, always making people feel relaxed.
Literally meaning 'white society', it's used to critique societal norms or pressures that feel unnatural or oppressive, often highlighting the absurdities of modern life.
We live in an absurd society; the pressures make it hard to breathe.
Translating to 'algorithm recommendation,' this term is often used to discuss how social media platforms curate content for users based on their interactions. It reflects both fascination and frustration with digital ...
I really don't know why the algorithm recommendations always give me weird videos.
This phrase translates to 'moving clouds and flowing water,' used to describe something that is smooth and natural, often in reference to performance, art, or writing. It suggests a graceful and effortless quality.
His speech was like moving clouds and flowing water, captivating the audience.
This phrase means 'heart surging waves,' used to express overwhelming emotions, often excitement or passion. It is commonly seen in romantic contexts or during significant events.
Seeing her performance made my heart surge with emotion; I was particularly excited.
Short for 'original character', this term refers to unique characters created by fans within fandom communities, such as in anime or gaming. It's often used to share and promote personal creations.
I drew my original character and am ready to share it in the forum.
This term, derived from gaming, stands for 'Area of Effect' and refers to abilities that impact multiple targets at once. It's commonly used in discussions about strategy and gameplay.
This character's AOE skill is really strong; it can hit many people at once.
Translating to 'meat pie falling from the sky', this phrase refers to unexpected good fortune or luck, often in a sarcastic sense. It implies that one should not expect free gifts or success without hard work.
Success doesn’t come from meat pies falling from the sky; it requires hard work.
Translating to 'alternative,' this term is used to describe unconventional styles, tastes, or ideas, often in fashion or art contexts. It embraces individuality and nonconformity.
His fashion style is quite alternative, attracting a lot of attention.
Literally 'seriously doubt,' this phrase is often used humorously to express skepticism about something that seems too good to be true. It indicates doubts about authenticity.
I seriously doubt his promise this time.
This term means 'science popularization' and refers to the act of making complex scientific concepts accessible to the general public. It's commonly used in educational contexts, especially online.
This channel focuses on science popularization, hoping everyone can understand science.
Translating to 'all sentient beings suffer,' this phrase reflects a philosophical perspective on life’s hardships. It’s often used humorously or cynically in discussions about daily struggles, especially in a light-he...
All sentient beings suffer; today is another busy day.
This phrase means 'please look forward to' and is often used in marketing and social media to build anticipation for upcoming events or products. It's a polite way to engage an audience's interest.
Our new product will be launched soon; please look forward to it!
This term means 'dog hero' and is used affectionately to refer to pets—especially dogs—who are perceived as brave or heroic. It reflects the deep affection many have for their pets.
My dog hero always protects me; he’s truly a little hero.
This term refers to 'formal or surface-level talk', often used to describe insincere pleasantries or polite expressions that lack genuine sentiment.
We said a lot of formalities at the gathering, but there wasn't much real communication.
Literally meaning 'unchanging for ten thousand years', this term is used to describe something that has remained constant or outdated. It is often used to mock traditions or outdated views in a humorous context.
His ideas are truly unchanged for ten thousand years; there’s no progress.
Literally meaning 'instant noodle skirt', this term refers to a type of flared skirt that resembles the packaging of instant noodles. It has become a humorous fashion reference, especially among younger women.
This kind of instant noodle skirt is very popular in summer; it’s really cute.
Meaning 'begin operations,' often used humorously to signify someone starting to sell or promote something, usually with an exaggerated tone of excitement.
I finally started operations; everyone is welcome to buy my handmade crafts!
Translating to 'heavy reliance,' this term describes a person or situation that heavily depends on something or someone else, especially in a humorous or exaggerated context.
I'm heavily reliant on this software; I can't live without it.
Translating to 'show-off maniac', this term describes someone who constantly boasts about their possessions or accomplishments on social media. It characterizes a specific behavior that many people find off-putting.
He is such a show-off maniac, posting photos of his luxury car every day.
This term refers to 'young rich kids' or affluent youth, often used to describe those who display wealth without much regard for effort. It's sometimes used derogatorily to criticize spoiled behavior.
Look at those young rich kids; their spending is so casual.
Translating to 'starting a group', this term often refers to initiating a collective effort, commonly in the context of group buying or collaborative events among friends or online communities.
Let's start a group to buy this product together; it will be cheaper.
This phrase literally means 'grandma's' but is used as an exclamation of frustration or annoyance. It functions similarly to an expletive in English, embodying a sense of disbelief or irritation.
Damn it, why is this game so hard!
This term, meaning 'dance fairy,' is used to refer to individuals who excel at dancing, often showcasing their skills on platforms like Douyin. It reflects admiration for their talent and grace.
She was called the dance fairy in the dance competition.
This phrase means 'endless surprises,' used to describe situations that are full of unexpected delights. It conveys excitement and positive anticipation.
This event is full of surprises; there’s something new every time.
This term translates to 'extra surprise' and refers to unexpected, delightful occurrences that surpass expectations. It can be applied in various contexts, from gifts to personal achievements.
This trip had many extra surprises; I was so happy.