If you’re interested in keeping up with modern Chinese culture, especially as it is expressed by Generation Z, it’s crucial to be aware of the latest slang terms. Chinese slang is not just a collection of random words; it reflects the changing social and cultural landscapes of the country. For language learners, mastering these slang terms can provide deeper insights into the culture and make your interactions with native speakers more dynamic and authentic. Below are the top 10 Chinese Gen Z slang terms you need to know.

1. 内卷 (nèi juǎn) – “Involution”

The term 内卷 (nèi juǎn) originally comes from anthropology and refers to a situation where increased inputs do not lead to increased outputs. In contemporary slang, it describes the hyper-competitive environment many young Chinese people find themselves in, whether it’s in education or the job market. For example, if you find yourself working late nights because everyone else is doing it, you can say you are experiencing 内卷.

2. 躺平 (tǎng píng) – “Lying Flat”

In contrast to 内卷, 躺平 (tǎng píng) represents a counter-cultural movement where young people decide to “lie flat” and not partake in the rat race. This term gained popularity as many Gen Z individuals began to reject the societal pressures of constant hard work and competition. It’s a way of expressing a desire for a simpler, less stressful life.

3. 干饭人 (gàn fàn rén) – “Meal Doer”

干饭人 (gàn fàn rén) literally translates to “meal doer” and is used to describe someone who loves to eat. It’s a playful term that celebrates the joy of eating, often used humorously. If you are someone who is always enthusiastic about food, you might be called a 干饭人.

4. 双标 (shuāng biāo) – “Double Standard”

双标 (shuāng biāo) is a term used to call out hypocrisy or double standards. It is often used in discussions on social media to point out when someone is being inconsistent in their judgments or actions. For example, if someone criticizes others for something they do themselves, they might be accused of having 双标.

5. 996 (jiǔ jiǔ liù) – “9-9-6 Work Culture”

The term 996 stands for a grueling work schedule that involves working from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week. This term has sparked much debate and controversy, especially in the tech industry in China. It is often used to criticize the demanding work culture that leaves little time for personal life.

6. 咸鱼 (xián yú) – “Salted Fish”

咸鱼 (xián yú) is a slang term used to describe someone who is unambitious or lazy. The term comes from the Cantonese phrase “咸鱼翻身” (xián yú fān shēn), which means “a salted fish turning over,” implying that it’s impossible for a salted fish to come back to life. If you’re feeling particularly unmotivated, you might jokingly call yourself a 咸鱼.

7. 硬核 (yìng hé) – “Hardcore”

硬核 (yìng hé) is used to describe something or someone that is extremely tough, intense, or impressive. It’s similar to the English term “hardcore” and can be used in various contexts, from describing a difficult video game to a person who has an impressive skill set. For example, if someone completes a challenging task with ease, you might say they are 硬核.

8. 杠精 (gàng jīng) – “Contrarian”

杠精 (gàng jīng) refers to someone who loves to argue for the sake of arguing, often without a valid reason. It’s a somewhat negative term, akin to calling someone a “troll” in English. If someone is always trying to start debates or contradict others, they might be labeled as a 杠精.

9. 佛系 (fó xì) – “Buddha-like”

佛系 (fó xì) describes a laid-back, indifferent attitude towards life, similar to the serene and detached mindset associated with Buddhism. People who are 佛系 tend to go with the flow and are not easily disturbed by external circumstances. This term is often used to describe a relaxed and easy-going approach to life and work.

10. 打卡 (dǎ kǎ) – “Clocking In/Out”

打卡 (dǎ kǎ) originally referred to the action of clocking in or out of work, but it has evolved to mean “checking in” at popular locations or events. It’s commonly used on social media to indicate that someone has visited a trendy place or participated in a popular activity. For example, if you visit a famous tourist spot, you might say you’ve 打卡 there.

Understanding the Cultural Context

Understanding these slang terms is more than just expanding your vocabulary; it’s about getting a glimpse into the lives, attitudes, and challenges of Chinese Gen Z. Many of these terms reflect the pressures and aspirations of young people navigating a rapidly changing society. For example, the popularity of terms like 内卷 and 躺平 highlights the intense competition and the desire for a simpler life that many young people feel.

How to Use These Terms

If you’re a language learner, incorporating these slang terms into your vocabulary can make your conversations more engaging and relatable. Here are some tips on how to use them:

1. Practice in Context: Try using these terms in sentences or conversations to get a feel for their proper usage. For example, you could say, “最近感觉自己被内卷了 (I feel like I’ve been involuted recently)” to express the pressure you’re under.

2. Engage with Native Content: Watch Chinese TV shows, movies, and social media content where these terms are frequently used. This will help you understand the nuances and contexts in which they are employed.

3. Ask for Feedback: If you have Chinese friends or language partners, don’t hesitate to ask them for feedback on your usage of these slang terms. They can provide valuable insights and corrections.

4. Stay Updated: Slang evolves rapidly, so it’s a good idea to keep up with the latest trends. Follow Chinese social media platforms and influencers to stay in the loop.

Why Slang Matters

Slang terms are often seen as informal or even frivolous, but they play a crucial role in language and culture. They reflect societal trends, attitudes, and changes in a way that more formal language often cannot. For language learners, mastering slang can make you sound more natural and help you connect with native speakers on a deeper level.

Breaking Down Barriers

Using slang correctly can break down barriers between you and native speakers. It shows that you are not just learning the language from textbooks but are also engaged with the culture. This can make conversations more fluid and enjoyable for both parties.

Enhancing Comprehension

Understanding slang can also enhance your comprehension when consuming native content. Whether you’re watching a Chinese drama, scrolling through Weibo, or chatting with friends, knowing these terms will help you understand the subtext and nuances that might otherwise go over your head.

Conclusion

Learning Chinese Gen Z slang is a fun and effective way to deepen your understanding of the language and culture. These terms offer a window into the lives and minds of young Chinese people, revealing their struggles, aspirations, and unique ways of expressing themselves. By incorporating these slang terms into your vocabulary, you’ll not only improve your language skills but also enrich your cultural insights. So go ahead, dive into the world of Chinese slang and see how it transforms your language learning journey!