Top 10 Chinese Internet Slang Terms You Need to Know in 2024

China's internet culture is wild, fast, and full of surprises. If you've ever scrolled through Douyin, Xiaohongshu, or Weibo and felt like everyone was speaking a different language — don’t worry, you're not alone. In 2024, Chinese netizens are spicing up their chats with slang that’s equal parts hilarious, sarcastic, and oddly poetic. Whether you’re learning Mandarin, doing business in China, or just curious about digital trends, here are the top 10 Chinese internet slang terms you absolutely need to know this year.

1. 躺平 (Tǎngpíng) – 'Lie Flat'

Once a quiet protest against hustle culture, 躺平 has evolved. It now means opting out of societal pressure — no more chasing promotions, marriage, or luxury cars. Just… lying flat. Literally and metaphorically.

2. 内卷 (Nèijuǎn) – 'Involution'

Imagine working harder but going nowhere. That’s 内卷. Originally an academic term, it now describes cutthroat competition where everyone loses. Think: staying at the office until midnight just because your coworker did.

3. 绝绝子 (Jué jué zǐ) – 'Absolutely Amazing'

Cute, repetitive, and everywhere in 2023, this phrase peaked as Gen Z’s go-to compliment. Though some say it’s cringe now, it still pops up on food reviews and fashion posts. Translation? “So good it’s unmatched.”

4. 栓Q (Shuān Q) – 'Thank you' (but make it chaotic)

A hilarious mispronunciation of 'thank you' turned meme. Used sarcastically after something goes wrong. Example: Boss gives extra work? “栓Q, 老板!” (Thanks a lot, boss!)

5. 咱就是说 (Zán jiùshì shuō) – 'Let’s be real...'

This softener prefaces hot takes. Like saying, “No offense, but…” before roasting a trend. Often used in comment sections to drop truth bombs politely.

6. 显眼包 (Xiǎnyǎnbāo) – 'The Center of Attention'

That friend who wears neon at a black-tie event? A 显眼包. Not always negative — could be someone proudly quirky. Think: TikTok dancers in panda costumes on the subway.

7. 电子榨菜 (Diànzǐ zhàcài) – 'Digital Pickle'

The ultimate comfort content you binge while eating alone. Could be a drama, podcast, or meme feed. Just like pickles go with rice, 电子榨菜 goes with instant noodles.

8. 惹 (Rě) – 'Sis, are you serious?'

Short for 我去 (wǒ qù), this interjection expresses shock or disbelief. Often paired with emojis. Text from mom: 'I joined a dating app.' Reply: '惹!!!'

9. 啊？” (Ā?) – The Universal Confused Response

More than just 'huh?' — it’s layered. Can mean confusion, denial, or playful teasing. Bonus points when typed as '啊啊啊？？？' during drama reveals.

10. 尊嘟假嘟 (Zūn dū jiǎ dū) – 'Really or fake really?'

Baby talk version of 'Is that true?' Popularized by voice filters and cute influencers. Say it in a high-pitched voice for full effect.

Quick Reference Table: 2024’s Hottest Slang

Chinese internet slang isn’t just fun — it’s a cultural lens. These phrases reflect real emotions: burnout, humor, rebellion, and connection. Master them, and you’ll sound less like a textbook and more like someone who actually scrolls Weibo for fun.

So next time you see 躺平 or hear 栓Q, don’t panic. Just smile, reply with an '啊？' and dive into the chaos. Welcome to 2024’s Chinese web universe.