Millennials have a unique way of shaping language, and Chinese millennials are no exception. Their innovative use of terms and slang has created a vibrant and dynamic linguistic landscape. Understanding these terms is not only essential for staying current but also for gaining deeper insights into modern Chinese culture. Here are the top 10 Chinese millennial terms you need to know.
1. 小确幸 (xiǎo què xìng)
This term translates to “small but certain happiness.” It captures the joy found in simple, everyday pleasures. Whether it’s enjoying a cup of coffee on a rainy day or receiving a compliment from a stranger, 小确幸 encapsulates those fleeting moments that bring happiness.
Usage Example:
“今天早上我在公园里散步，看到一只可爱的狗，这是我的小确幸。”
(Today I took a walk in the park and saw a cute dog. That was my small but certain happiness.)
2. 佛系 (fó xì)
Originating from the word “Buddha” (佛, fó), this term describes a laid-back, nonchalant attitude towards life. People who are 佛系 tend to be calm, easy-going, and unaffected by stress or pressure. They take things as they come, without getting too worked up.
Usage Example:
“我最近变得很佛系，不再为小事烦恼了。”
(Recently, I’ve become very laid-back and no longer worry about trivial matters.)
3. 斜杠青年 (xié gàng qīng nián)
Literally translating to “slash youth,” this term refers to millennials who pursue multiple careers or hobbies simultaneously. The “slash” (/) symbolizes the various roles they play, such as writer/designer/photographer. This trend reflects the generation’s desire for a more diversified and fulfilling life.
Usage Example:
“她是个斜杠青年，既是老师又是作家。”
(She is a slash youth, both a teacher and a writer.)
4. 剁手党 (duò shǒu dǎng)
This humorous term literally means “chop hand party” and refers to people who can’t resist online shopping, often to the point of financial irresponsibility. It highlights the addictive nature of e-commerce and the struggle to control impulsive spending.
Usage Example:
“双十一到了，剁手党们又要疯狂购物了。”
(With Singles’ Day approaching, the shopaholics are going to go on a shopping spree again.)
5. 吃土 (chī tǔ)
Literally meaning “eat dirt,” this slang term is used to describe someone who is broke or has spent all their money. It’s a humorous way to express financial hardship, implying that one can only afford to eat dirt.
Usage Example:
“这个月花太多钱了，我快要吃土了。”
(I spent too much money this month; I’m almost broke.)
6. 没有中间商赚差价 (méi yǒu zhōng jiān shāng zhuàn chā jià)
This phrase translates to “no middlemen making a profit” and is commonly used in online advertisements to emphasize that the product is being sold directly from the manufacturer to the consumer. It has become a catchphrase for promoting transparency and fair pricing.
Usage Example:
“我们的产品直接从工厂发货，没有中间商赚差价。”
(Our products are shipped directly from the factory, with no middlemen making a profit.)
7. 拍了拍 (pāi le pāi)
This term originates from a feature on the social media platform WeChat, where users can “pat” their friends in a virtual sense. It has evolved into a way of drawing someone’s attention or lightly teasing them. It’s a playful and friendly interaction.
Usage Example:
“他在微信上拍了拍我，问我今天过得怎么样。”
(He “patted” me on WeChat and asked how my day was.)
8. 打卡 (dǎ kǎ)
Originally meaning “to clock in” at work, this term has taken on a new meaning in the millennial lexicon. It now refers to the act of checking in or documenting one’s presence at a trendy location or event. Social media has popularized this term, as people love to share their experiences.
Usage Example:
“我们去了一家新开的咖啡馆，当然要打卡一下。”
(We went to a newly opened café; of course, we had to check in.)
9. 学霸 (xué bà) and 学渣 (xué zhā)
These two contrasting terms describe students at opposite ends of the academic spectrum. 学霸 (xué bà) refers to a top student or someone who excels in their studies, while 学渣 (xué zhā) describes a struggling student or someone who performs poorly academically.
Usage Example:
“他是个学霸，每次考试都拿高分。”
(He is a top student and always scores high on exams.)
“我是个学渣，数学总是考不好。”
(I’m a struggling student; I always do poorly in math.)
10. 杠精 (gàng jīng)
This term refers to someone who loves to argue or contradict others, often without a valid reason. The word 杠 (gàng) means “to argue” or “to contradict,” and 精 (jīng) means “spirit” or “essence.” A 杠精 is essentially a “troll” who enjoys picking fights and causing disagreements.
Usage Example:
“他总是喜欢和别人争论，真是个杠精。”
(He always likes to argue with others; he’s such a troll.)
Conclusion
Understanding these millennial terms offers a glimpse into the evolving nature of the Chinese language and the culture of its younger generation. These expressions not only enrich your vocabulary but also help you connect more deeply with native speakers. As you continue your language learning journey, keep an ear out for these terms, and don’t hesitate to use them in your conversations. Happy learning!
