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 phrase translates to 'spending money like water,' used to describe someone who spends money extravagantly or carelessly. It serves as a critique of financial irresponsibility.
He spends money like water and doesn't care at all.
Meaning 'repeating machine,' this term refers to someone who keeps repeating the same thing or idea, often seen in discussions or arguments. It implies that the person lacks original thoughts or is overly stubborn.
In the discussion, he was like a repeating machine, endlessly restating his viewpoint.
Literally meaning 'one wave, three folds,' this phrase describes a situation or story that has many twists and turns. It is used to convey the complexity of events, especially in narratives or dramas.
This movie really had many twists; I didn't expect the ending to be like that.
Translating to 'disciplined girl,' this term refers to individuals (often women) who maintain a structured and disciplined lifestyle, focusing on self-care, productivity, and personal growth. It’s often shared in well...
She is a disciplined girl, exercising every day.
This term translates to 'girly boy' and is used to refer to men who exhibit traits traditionally associated with femininity. While it can be used derogatorily, it has also been reclaimed by some who embrace a more flu...
He likes to wear makeup; everyone calls him a girly boy.
This phrase means 'so-so' or 'mediocre,' used to describe something that is not bad but also not great. It conveys a sense of indifference towards quality.
This movie is so-so; there's nothing special about it.
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 term means 'to urgently help someone in need,' often used in contexts where someone seeks immediate assistance or intervention from friends or the community. It conveys a sense of camaraderie and support.
I'm stuck on the road today; I urgently need help!
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.
This phrase translates to 'a mother’s heart' and is used to describe someone who is overly caring or protective, often in a humorous way. It conveys a sense of nurturing, sometimes to a fault.
You really have a mother’s heart, always worrying about me.
Martial arts skill that surpasses the entire world — hyperbolic praise for supreme ability in wuxia. Online, used as over-the-top flattery for anyone who demonstrates exceptional skill, even in trivial matters.
Your cooking skill surpasses the whole world — I would gladly eat here every day!
Seed phrase / Mnemonic - Recovery words for your crypto wallet.
Write your seed phrase on paper, do not store it on your phone.
I'm dead (from cuteness / shock / emotion) — abbreviation of 啊我死了 (ā wǒ sǐ le). Used when something is so cute, beautiful, or emotionally overwhelming that you "die" from it. The Chinese equivalent of "I'm deceased."
Saw their couple photo — AWSL, I'm dead, it's too sweet!
Cross-chain - Moving assets between different blockchain networks.
Cross-chain bridges are frequently attacked by hackers.
Translating to 'not asking for others', this term describes a self-sufficient attitude where one prefers to rely on oneself rather than depend on others for help or support.
I prefer to be self-sufficient and solve my problems myself.
Literally 'Powerpuff Girls', this term is used to describe strong, independent women who can handle challenges with finesse. It conveys empowerment and the ability to multitask.
She handles work and family effortlessly; she's like the Powerpuff Girls.
Translating to 'echo', it refers to situations where one's words or opinions resonate with others, often used in discussions about social media trends or content that gains a lot of attention.
This video has a big echo; everyone is discussing it.
This phrase translates to 'a bit interesting' and is used to express curiosity or intrigue about something, often in a light-hearted or humorous context.
This story is a bit interesting; I want to hear more.
This term means 'to enlighten or educate,' often used in contexts where information is shared to clear up misunderstandings. It's akin to giving a crash course on a topic.
Let me enlighten you on this hot topic.
Translating to 'outsider', this term describes someone who doesn't fit into a particular group or situation. It can imply a feeling of being disconnected or unfamiliar with a social context.
In this circle, I feel like an outsider.
Literally 'internet sprayer', this term denotes online trolls or individuals who post negative comments and criticisms indiscriminately. It's often used to describe people who enjoy stirring up trouble online.
The comments from these internet trolls are really frustrating.
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.
Translating to 'leg essence,' this term is often used to describe people, typically women, with particularly attractive legs. It highlights an appreciation for physical beauty, especially in fashion contexts.
She really has gorgeous legs; she looks great in anything.
'Deep well ice' refers to someone who is extremely foolish or naive, akin to being in a deep state of ignorance. The phrase is often used humorously to reflect incredulity.
His behavior is truly foolish; I completely don’t understand.
Translating to 'crooked neck,' this term playfully refers to someone who is awkward or out of place, often used in a humorous or self-deprecating way.
He always seems a bit out of place at parties.
Translating to 'make friends,' this term can be used both literally and to describe the act of networking or connecting with others in a social context. It emphasizes the importance of relationships.
Making friends was very important when I was in university.
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.
Translates to 'clever ghost,' referring to someone who is quick-witted and smart, often used as a compliment to describe sharp individuals.
She is really a clever ghost; she always comes up with great ideas.
Translating to 'fervent fan', this term describes someone who is intensely passionate about a celebrity, band, or show, often participating in fandom activities. It emphasizes the enthusiasm within fan cultures.
She’s a fervent fan of that drama and discusses the plot almost every day.
Literally means 'blender' or 'mixing person,' this humorous term is used to describe someone who does nothing productive but pretends to be busy or is a slacker. It often has a light-hearted, mocking tone.
He spends all day just being a slacker and doesn't work seriously at all.
Healing genre — a category of content or aesthetics with a soothing, restorative quality. Originally from Japanese iyashikei, it describes anything — videos, animals, food, slow life — that makes you feel calm and hea...
Snow Mountain Fox Rescue is typical healing-genre content — I felt much less stressed after watching.
This term refers to the overall atmosphere or vibe in a particular situation, often used in the context of social gatherings, art, or design. It highlights the importance of setting.
The atmosphere in this coffee shop is great, making me feel relaxed.
Translating to 'refuse to yield even if beaten', this term describes a person who is determined and resilient despite adversity. It is often used to praise someone's strength of character.
Her spirit is unyielding even if beaten; we should learn from her.
Literally 'melon seeds', this term is commonly used to describe someone who is watching a situation unfold, akin to a spectator. It reflects a casual attitude toward events, as if one is merely enjoying some snacks wh...
I’ll just be a spectator, enjoying the show.
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.
Meaning 'to speculate', this term is used in discussions where opinions or theories about uncertain outcomes are shared. It emphasizes conjecture based on limited information.
This is my speculation; what do you think?
Bullsh*t / Nonsense (literally: dog fart)
Everything you said is bullsh*t, stop lying to me.
This term conveys a feeling of pleasure or satisfaction, often used to respond positively to something delightfully surprising. It reflects a sense of enjoyment.
I just had an ice cream; it felt really satisfying.
Literally 'milk tea is top-notch', this phrase expresses a strong affection for milk tea, which is immensely popular among young people. It represents the culture of enjoying bubble tea outings.
Let's go have some top-notch milk tea today!
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 'truth,' this term is often used humorously to refer to statements or beliefs that are seen as universally accepted truths in a light-hearted manner. It emphasizes a sense of wisdom or understanding.
This saying is the truth; I completely agree.
Literally meaning 'pressure mountain big,' it describes feeling overwhelmed or heavily stressed. It's a humorous exaggeration that has become popular among young people.
Work and studying make me feel overwhelmed; I want a holiday.
This literally means 'seafood', but in internet slang, it's used to describe someone who is 'fresh' or 'new', often in a humorous or mocking way.
His performance today was really fresh.
This term means 'filial piety' and describes the respect and devotion children show towards their parents. It reflects a cultural value deeply ingrained in Chinese society.
He is a very filial child, often helping his parents.
This term refers to dried plums, often used humorously to describe a person who is sour or negative, likely in response to something happy or upbeat.
Don't be a sourpuss; cheer up; life must go on.
This number has become a popular euphemism for 'Qing Dynasty,' often used in discussions about historical context or heritage. It signifies a deeper connection to Chinese traditional history.
He's very interested in Qing Dynasty history, always studying relevant materials.
Meaning 'to suffer from a cruel hand,' this phrase is used humorously to describe situations where someone suffers a humorous or unfortunate fate at the hands of someone else. It often appears in a playful context.
At my friend's party, I suffered a cruel fate and was dragged to dance.
This phrase means 'let's start with a wave', often used when introducing something or initiating a discussion. It’s a playful way of engaging others.
Let's start the meeting with a warm-up.