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.
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.
Translates to 'unboxing,' this term describes the trend of opening products in front of an audience, often seen in videos. It reflects consumer culture and the excitement surrounding new products.
I will be live-streaming an unboxing today, showcasing my newly bought tech products.
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 means 'weekend' and is commonly used to refer to leisure activities or relaxation time after a workweek. It’s often associated with social plans or personal time.
Let's go hiking this weekend.
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.
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 'chicken head rice,' this term describes something that is good quality or top-notch, often used to refer to a high-value product or experience. It’s a playful way to compliment something admirable.
The steak at this restaurant is truly top-notch.
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.
Literally meaning 'ugly rejection,' this is a humorous term used to decline offers or invitations in a light-hearted way, often implying that the offer is unappealing. It’s commonly used in dating and social contexts.
I can only decline his invitation in an ugly way.
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.
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.
Translating to 'psychological counseling,' this term can be used informally in a joking context to refer to light-hearted advice or casual conversations that help alleviate stress.
Chatting with friends feels like psychological counseling.
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.
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 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 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 refers to someone who acts sophisticated but lacks substance or depth. Literally, it translates to 'American ginseng,' symbolizing something that appears valuable but isn’t.
He always pretends to be sophisticated, but he actually knows nothing.
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 '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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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, 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 '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 '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.
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.
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!
Cross-chain - Moving assets between different blockchain networks.
Cross-chain bridges are frequently attacked by hackers.
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!
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.
Literally 'bad luck,' this term is used to express frustration over unfortunate events or circumstances. It conveys a sense of being jinxed or unfairly treated.
Today I’m really unlucky; I lost my wallet.
Peerless master — a martial artist of supreme, unrivaled skill in wuxia fiction. Used online as enthusiastic hyperbole for anyone who is exceptionally good at anything — cooking, gaming, studying, even parking a car.
The speed at which he codes — he is an absolute peerless master!
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.
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.
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 'to achieve one's wishes' and is often used when someone successfully attains something they desired. It encapsulates a sense of fulfillment and happiness.
As the New Year arrives, I hope everyone can realize their wishes.
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 means 'emotionally collapsed,' often used when someone feels overwhelmed or burdened by stress or negative feelings. It expresses a state of emotional exhaustion.
I'm so tired from work today; I feel emotionally collapsed.
This phrase means 'return to reality' and is used to describe the need to stop daydreaming or being overly optimistic, often after a situation leads to disappointment. It implies a reminder to be pragmatic.
You can’t always fantasize about success; you need to return to reality.
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.
The term mimics the sound of something rolling or tumbling, often used to represent procrastination or an idle lifestyle. It can also describe a situation where things don't go as planned, adding a playful tone.
I rolled around all afternoon and didn't get anything done.
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.
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.
Bye bye — 88 sounds like 拜拜 (bāi bāi), the Mandarin phonetic borrowing of the English "bye bye." The quickest and most universal numeric farewell in Chinese digital communication.
Going offline — bye bye!
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.
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?