Chinese Internet Slang: Are You Keeping Up with the Trends?

Chinese Internet Slang: Are You Keeping Up with the Trends?

In this era of rapid internet development, internet slang terms are like cookies with an expiration date—they quickly fall out of fashion as trends change swiftly!

Using appropriate Chinese slang in everyday life, especially when meeting new friends, can make conversations more engaging and foster a sense of closeness. Let’s introduce some commonly used internet slang!

1. 炎上 (yán shàng)

Originally from Japanese, this term refers to a fierce fire-burning phenomenon. In Taiwan, '炎上' has been adopted by a well-known talk show and can apply to various people and situations. It describes a state where criticism and condemnation flood the internet, often leading to cyberbullying. For instance, if a famous show host inaccurately discusses a well-known personality, they might be accused of lying and face backlash, leading to '炎上'.

2. 哇酷哇酷 (wā kù wā kù)

Originating from the Japanese anime "SPYxFAMILY," this classic expression is a catchphrase of the character 'Anya,' originally in Japanese as わくわく. In Taiwan, it conveys extreme excitement and agitation.

3. 確實 (chiuè shí)

This term expresses agreement with someone's opinion or idea. It's often used in dismissive replies and as a filler word in conversations.

4. 笑死 (xiào sǐ)

Similar to "laugh my ass off" in English, it means finding something hilarious, almost to the point of "dying of laughter." It can also be used dismissively in messages or as a filler.

5. 我沒了 (WML, wǒ méi le)

This term is used when encountering beautiful things or people who are pleasing to the eye, implying being overwhelmed by the sight and unable to express the excitement inside.

6. 真假 (zhēn jiǎ)

Used to express surprise, this is an abbreviation of '真的假的' (really?), indicating a desire to hear more details about the topic.

7. 瑪卡巴卡 (mǎ kǎ bā kǎ)

Originating from the British children's show "In the Night Garden," where the narrator says goodnight to all the characters: "Goodnight, MakaPaka." Thus, 瑪卡巴卡 has become an internet phrase used to say goodnight to friends.

8. 不許你胡說/亂講 (bù xǔ nǐ hú shuō/luàn jiǎng)

Similar to "bullshit" in English, this phrase is often used in online chats with a hint of jest and irony, gently refuting a point or stance.

Want to keep up with trendy internet slang? Don’t forget to follow our social media platforms for more language insights. Stay trendy and converse effortlessly with Taiwanese friends, sharing your thoughts freely!