Chinese slang and colloquial expressions are an integral part of everyday communication, reflecting cultural nuances and adding color to the language. Here, we explore some commonly used Chinese slang words and phrases that are essential for anyone looking to understand or engage in natural, conversational Mandarin.
牛逼 (niú bī)
This slang term is a somewhat vulgar but widely used expression to commend someone or something as awesome or impressive.
他的篮球技术真牛逼！
吃豆腐 (chī dòufu)
Literally translating to ‘eat tofu,’ this phrase is used colloquially to imply flirting or making a pass at someone.
别看他那么老实，其实他常常吃豆腐。
土豪 (tǔ háo)
Describes someone who is wealthy but lacks sophistication or cultural knowledge, akin to the English term ‘nouveau riche.’
看他买了那么多名牌，真是个土豪。
给力 (gěi lì)
This phrase means to offer support, help, or energy, often used to express approval or encouragement.
这个新方案真给力，大家都很支持。
小鲜肉 (xiǎo xiān ròu)
Translated as ‘little fresh meat,’ this term refers to young, good-looking men, similar to the English ‘eye candy.’
最近的电视剧都喜欢用小鲜肉来吸引观众。
撒娇 (sā jiāo)
This term describes the act of acting coquettishly in a cute manner, usually by women to charm someone into spoiling them.
她向男朋友撒娇，希望他能买那条裙子。
闷骚 (mèn sāo)
Refers to someone who appears quiet and reserved but is actually very passionate and outgoing.
他看起来不多话，但其实非常闷骚。
装逼 (zhuāng bī)
A vulgar slang term used to describe someone who is showing off or pretending to be something they are not.
他总是喜欢在别人面前装逼。
败家 (bài jiā)
This phrase means to squander money or resources, typically used to describe someone who spends excessively without consideration.
他一拿到工资就去败家，一会儿就花光了。
靠谱 (kào pǔ)
This expression means reliable or trustworthy, used to describe someone or something one can depend on.
这个计划听起来挺靠谱的，我们可以试试。
掉链子 (diào liàn zi)
Literally translating to ‘drop the chain,’ it is used metaphorically to describe someone or something failing at a crucial moment.
关键时刻他掉链子，让团队很受伤。
囧 (jiǒng)
This character, often used as an emoticon, represents a state of embarrassment or awkwardness.
他说那话的时候，我真的觉得很囧。
逗比 (dòu bǐ)
A playful insult for someone who is often funny or acts in a clownish way, similar to ‘goofball.’
他总是能逗得大家笑，真是个逗比。
辣眼睛 (là yǎnjīng)
Literally means ‘spicy eyes,’ used to describe something so absurd or offensive that it’s metaphorically painful to look at.
他穿那套衣服真是辣眼睛。
Understanding these slang expressions not only helps in boosting your vocabulary but also gives you insights into Chinese culture and social interactions. Whether you’re chatting with friends or watching Chinese media, recognizing these phrases will enhance your comprehension and engagement with the language.
