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 'killing time', this phrase refers to activities that occupy one's time without necessarily being productive. It reflects a casual or leisurely approach to passing moments while waiting or looking for e...
I like watching videos to kill time.
Translating to 'cloud cat-adoring', this term describes the act of enjoying or adoring cats online, often through social media. It reflects a growing trend of virtual pet ownership and appreciation.
Recently, I've been adoring cats online every day, and I feel particularly happy.
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.
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?
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.
Literally meaning 'to cover the sky with one hand', this term describes someone who has a significant influence or control, often in a negative context. It reflects a sense of overreach or manipulation.
His power in the company makes people feel like he covers the sky with one hand.
Translated as 'dreamlike' or 'fantasy,' this term describes something idealistic, beautiful, or unattainable. It can refer to experiences, aesthetics, or aspirations that feel magical or surreal.
Her wedding was a dreamlike scene that’s hard to forget.
This term translates to 'assist' and is frequently used in gaming or sports contexts to describe someone who helps another achieve success, particularly in scoring. It can also be used metaphorically in social situati...
She assisted me in this match, helping me win.
This poetic phrase translates to 'the autumn waters share a color with the endless sky', often used to express beauty and harmony in nature. It's used romantically to describe idyllic settings or feelings.
Watching the sunset on the beach gives me the feeling of beauty in harmony.
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.
Meaning 'sense of technology,' this slang is used to describe something that feels modern and has a high-tech appeal. It's often used in discussions about design, fashion, or apps that leverage advanced technology.
This phone has a strong sense of technology; the picture quality is super clear.
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.
Meaning 'fragile' or 'weak', this term is often used to describe someone who is emotionally sensitive. It has gained traction in discussions around mental health and vulnerability.
In this high-pressure society, many people feel fragile.
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.
Translating to 'same model,' this term often refers to products that are the same as those used or worn by celebrities or influencers. It signifies the desire to emulate popular styles or trends.
This bag is the same model as the one used by the celebrity; I want to buy one too.
Translating to 'old eight forms,' this phrase denotes a set of eight typical behaviors or patterns that are often predictable or cliché. It is used to mock or criticize those who adhere to these patterns.
He’s at it again; it’s the same old predictable behavior.
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 '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.
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.
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.
Meaning 'short video traffic generation', this term is used in marketing contexts to refer to strategies that attract an audience using short video formats. It highlights the trend of using quick, engaging content to ...
We need to use short videos to attract traffic for product promotion.
Translating to 'warning outfit', this term humorously refers to someone who dresses in an eye-catching or loud manner, often used to poke fun at fashion choices that draw attention.
Her outfit today is truly a warning outfit; it's too eye-catching.
Translating to 'the outside scene', this term is often used to describe a situation where external appearances are misleading, highlighting the contrast between surface beauty and underlying issues.
The outside scene seems beautiful, but internally there are many troubles.
Referring to a 'fan circle,' this term describes the community of fans surrounding a celebrity or fandom. It often involves intense loyalty and interactions among members.
She joined her idol's fan circle, binge-watching dramas and voting.
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.
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 'silly roe deer,' this humorous term refers to someone who is naive or innocent, often used affectionately. It describes someone who is straightforward or lacks worldly wisdom.
He’s such a naive person; he doesn’t understand anything.
This phrase means 'deceiving me is non-negotiable,' used to express a strong reaction to being tricked or fooled. It's often used humorously in response to surprising news or situations.
You didn't even tell me about this; deceiving me is non-negotiable!
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 'a bolt from the blue,' this term describes an unexpected shock or surprising news. It captures the feeling of sudden change in a dramatic way.
His resignation was truly a bolt from the blue for me.
This phrase means 'not unreasonable,' used to express that while something may not be ideal, it’s understandable or justifiable. It’s often used in discussions to show acceptance of imperfect situations.
Facing this pressure, it is not unreasonable for them to choose to give up.
Translating to 'return to youth,' this phrase expresses the desire to relive one's younger days or recapture youthful energy. It symbolizes nostalgia and longing for simpler times.
Seeing these old photos makes me really feel like returning to my youth.
Going to zero - When a cryptocurrency loses all its value.
This coin went to zero, all invested money is gone.
Translating to 'announce in advance', this term is often used when someone reveals information or news prematurely, typically before an official announcement. It can be humorous or serious, depending on context.
The cast list for this new drama was announced in advance.
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.
This slang refers to a type of popular food, often used humorously or in memes. It can also denote something that's fun or trendy.
The new dishes at that restaurant are delicious; it’s definitely on-trend!
This term refers to a binge-watching style where someone gets so engrossed in a series that they become 'paralyzed' and can't do anything else. It humorously highlights how addictive and consuming watching dramas can be.
This drama is so good; I binge-watched it all night until 6 AM.
Literally means 'whale swallowing'. It refers to someone or something that indiscriminately consumes or absorbs a large quantity of something, often used in the context of resources or knowledge.
He’s like a whale swallowing knowledge in his studies.
Translating to 'blind eye', this term is used to describe someone who fails to notice obvious things, often in a humorous or slightly insulting manner.
This person is really oblivious; they can't see that she likes him.
Translating to 'followers,' this term refers to people who follow a particular trend, celebrity, or influencer, often in a fanatical way. It emphasizes the nature of digital fandom and the impact of social media.
He has thousands of followers on his social media.
This term means 'not understanding' and is often used humorously to express confusion or bewilderment in discussions, particularly when faced with complex or contradictory opinions.
Your logic really confuses me.
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.
You're right (often sarcastic) — abbreviation of 你说得对 (nǐ shuō de duì), literally "what you said is correct." Can be sincere agreement, but on Chinese internet it is almost always used sarcastically to dismiss an argu...
Sure sure sure, NSDD — you're the greatest.
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 '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!
Translating to 'fortune telling', this term is used in both traditional and modern contexts to refer to the practice of seeking predictions about one’s future based on astrology or other methods. It can also have a pl...
I like to go for fortune telling to see what the future holds.
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 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.
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!