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
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meaning 'unchanging for ten thousand years', this term is used to describe something that has remained constant or outdated. It is often used to mock traditions or outdated views in a humorous context.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.
This term means 'to lay out the cards' and refers to revealing one's true intentions or feelings, often used in discussions of relationships or business deals. It's about being honest and straightforward.
We finally laid our cards on the table, and we both know each other's true feelings.
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!
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 'mind map,' this term refers to a visual tool for organizing thoughts and ideas. It's often used in educational and professional settings to enhance comprehension and creativity.
To prepare for the report, I organized all my thoughts using a mind map.
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 'dancer', this term has gained popularity on platforms like Douyin to describe users who post dance videos. It's often used endearingly to refer to both amateur and professional dancers.
Every time she dances, I feel like she's a dancer.
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 '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.
Airdrop - Free token distribution to wallet holders.
This project is doing an airdrop, go claim it!
Literally translating to 'must see,' this term is used to recommend movies, shows, or content that is considered essential viewing. It conveys a sense of urgency and importance in recommendations.
This movie is truly a must-see; it's so touching.
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!
Literally 'social networking site', this term refers to platforms like Weibo, Douyin, or WeChat. It underscores the importance of online interaction in contemporary life, emphasizing how these platforms facilitate con...
I share my life every day on social networking sites.
This phrase translates to 'push down and start over', referring to the act of completely redoing something from scratch. It reflects a desire for a fresh start.
This project has failed; I've decided to start over from scratch.
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.
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.
Means 'not happy', often used to express dissatisfaction or disappointment in a light-hearted way, especially in online discussions.
I’m not happy today because I didn’t do well on the exam.
Literally meaning 'eating melon online', this phrase refers to the act of observing gossip, drama, or scandals on the internet without actively participating, akin to being a spectator.
I'm online eating melons on Weibo, it's so interesting.
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.
Too tired to love - So exhausted that you have lost passion.
Work has drained all my passion.
Literally means 'workers with fragile skin', this term humorously describes people who are overworked yet still want to maintain a glamorous lifestyle, often creating a stark contrast between their daily grind and the...
Even though I'm a fragile worker, I still love to pursue fashion.
To show off one's children, often on social media, reflecting pride and joy in parenting. It highlights a cultural tendency to share family moments online.
I often show off my child on social media, and my friends say my baby is very cute.
This term means 'dark horse' and is used to describe someone or something that unexpectedly achieves success, especially in competitive environments. It emphasizes the surprise aspect of their victory.
This movie unexpectedly became a dark horse, surpassing box office expectations.
Translating to 'rich or poor,' this phrase is used to refer to the dichotomy of wealth in society. It highlights the stark differences between those who have money and those who struggle financially.
Whether you are rich or poor, life must go on.
This phrase, meaning 'plastic sisters', refers to superficial friendships that lack depth or authenticity, often used in social commentary.
Their friendship is just plastic sisters, not worth trusting.
Meaning 'rookie' or 'newbie,' it is often used to describe someone who is inexperienced in a particular area, most commonly in gaming or learning a new skill. It can be used in a light-hearted manner.
I’m a rookie at this game; I’ve just started playing not long ago.
Literally 'lower the temperature', this term is often used to indicate cooling down a heated situation or emotions. It can refer to relationships or conflicts that need to be calmed.
Their argument is too intense; it needs to cool down a bit.
Literally meaning 'pufferfish,' this term is often used to describe something that is dangerous yet appealing, much like the dish made from pufferfish which can be toxic if not prepared correctly.
This adventure is like a pufferfish, both thrilling and dangerous.
Translating to 'iron powder,' this term is used to describe extremely dedicated fans or enthusiasts of a specific celebrity, brand, or product. It signifies a strong loyalty to their interests.
He is a die-hard fan of a certain idol and keeps up with their updates every day.
Translates to 'lottery' or 'drawing lots,' this term is used in online contexts where people join contests or giveaways. It reflects the excitement and chance of winning something.
Participate in this event for a chance to win a lottery; come and give it a try!
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 'the future is promising,' this term expresses hope and positivity about what lies ahead. It’s commonly used to encourage others or to express optimism.
Although there are difficulties now, I believe the future is promising.
Meaning 'to run alongside', it describes someone who supports another person in their pursuits, especially in competitions or goals, often implying a role of encouragement rather than competition.
I've been supporting my friend, helping her pursue her dreams.
Shaolin Soccer — Stephen Chow's 2001 breakthrough film combining martial arts and football. Used as a reference for any situation where someone applies completely inappropriate skills to solve a problem, or achieves s...
He used Excel data in his presentation to demolish the competitor's plan — pure Shaolin Soccer energy.
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.
Meaning 'lively' or 'agile', this term is used to describe someone or something that is dynamic, energetic, or charmingly animated. It’s often used in performance or artistic contexts to celebrate expression.
This dance performance is really lively and captivates the audience.
Translating to 'irritable' or 'hasty', this term is used to describe someone who is easily angered or quick-tempered. It often conveys a sense of frustration or impatience.
He’s really irritable; he gets angry at the slightest inconvenience.
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.
This term means 'street vending' and describes the act of setting up a stall to sell goods or food, typically in a public space. It's often associated with entrepreneurship and the hustle culture.
I've decided to set up a stall this weekend to sell some handmade accessories.
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!
Translating to 'the heart moves,' this is used to express feelings of love or attraction when one feels a flutter in their heart. It's often used in romantic contexts, particularly among young people.
The moment I saw him, my heart raced.
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.
Translating to 'eating watermelon,' it refers to casually watching or observing drama unfold, especially on social media. It denotes a sense of detachment and amusement while enjoying the show.
Seeing their argument, I can only sit on the sidelines and watch the drama unfold.
Translates to 'smash cucumber,' and is used humorously to describe actions that are awkward or clumsy. It is often employed in a playful manner to diffuse embarrassing situations.
I was so clumsy at the gathering today, it was really embarrassing.
Translating to 'chicken soup literature', this term refers to overly sentimental or motivational writing that aims to uplift readers. It can be used sarcastically to critique overly simple or cliché advice.
These chicken soup articles make me feel bored.
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.
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 'Worry Relief Grocery Store,' this term comes from a popular novel and symbolizes a place where people can find solutions to their problems or share their worries. It's rooted in the concept of communit...
My friend is like a 'worry relief grocery store'; they always give me good advice.
Literally 'young boys and girls', this term is often used to refer to teenagers or young adults, particularly in the context of discussions about youth culture, trends, and influences.
The young boys and girls had a big reaction to this drama.
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!