Chinese slang words you’ll actually use

Today I’m sharing a few fun Chinese slang words and when you’d actually use them. If you want more like this, check out Illustrated Chinese Buzzwords from Foreign Languages Press or Niubi by Eveline Chao. It’s packed with clear examples and short explanations.

来电 láidiàn

来电 = to feel a spark or instant chemistry with someone. Playful, often used in dating or gossip.

When people use it

• First impressions on dates or at parties

• Friends gossiping about whether two people “clicked”

我是说真的，我第一次见面就对她来电了。
Wǒ shì shuō zhēn de, wǒ dì yī cì jiànmiàn jiù duì tā láidiàn le.
I’m serious. I felt a spark the first time we met.

吐槽 tǔcáo

吐槽 = playful roasting or light complaining. It’s common among friends, classmates, coworkers, and online. The goal is usually to be funny while pointing out something awkward, cheesy, or inconvenient.

When people use it

• Reviews and reactions: movies, TV shows, products, ads.

• Daily life rants: long lines, slow service, weird rules.

• Friendly teasing: joking about a friend’s habits or outfit.

• In the office: complaining about bosses, coworkers, etc.

别生气，我们只是互相吐槽，开个玩笑。
Bié shēngqì, wǒmen zhǐshì hùxiāng tǔcáo, kāi ge wánxiào.
Don’t be mad. We’re just teasing each other for fun.

吃货 chīhuo

吃货 = foodie. Someone who loves eating and is always hunting for tasty stuff. Usually playful or affectionate, not rude.

When people use it

• Joking about loving food.

• Teasing friends: someone who can’t resist snacks or desserts.

我是个标准吃货，这次旅行主要是找好吃的。
Wǒ shì ge biāozhǔn chīhuo, zhè cì lǚxíng zhǔyào shì zhǎo hǎochī de.
I’m a total foodie. This trip is basically all about finding great food.

囧 jiǒng

囧 = awkward, embarrassed, cringe. A reaction to an uncomfortable moment or social fail.

When people use it

• Social slip-ups: saying the wrong thing, wrong group chat, wardrobe mishaps.

• Tech fails: mic left on, screen share oops.

今天开会我把麦一直开着，小声吐槽都被听到了，场面好囧。
Jīntiān kāihuì wǒ bǎ mài yìzhí kāizhe, xiǎoshēng tǔcáo dōu bèi tīngdào le, chǎngmiàn hǎo jiǒng.
During today’s meeting my mic was on the whole time. Even my quiet complaints were heard. So awkward.

山寨 shānzhài

山寨 = knockoff, copycat, bootleg, or homemade imitation. Tone can be negative or playful depending on context.

When people use it

• Talking about cheap copies of big brands

• DIY or budget substitutions that mimic the real thing

这是山寨版的 AirPods，用起来还行，就是续航一般。
Zhè shì shānzhài bǎn de AirPods, yòng qǐlái hái xíng, jiù shì xùháng yìbān.
These are knockoff AirPods. They work okay, but the battery life is just so-so.

Happy learning,
Sandy