From 'Neijuan' to 'Tangping': Understanding China's Internet Slang of Resistance
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- Source：The Silk Road Echo
In recent years, two buzzwords have exploded across Chinese social media: 'Neijuan' (involution) and 'Tangping' (lying flat). More than just internet slang, they reflect a growing cultural shift among China’s youth—a quiet rebellion against relentless competition and societal pressure.
So what do these terms really mean? And why are millions embracing them?
What Is 'Neijuan'? The Burnout Epidemic
'Neijuan', literally meaning 'involution', describes a situation where people work harder and harder but gain little in return. It’s like running on a treadmill—exhausting, yet going nowhere.
This term gained traction as young professionals faced longer work hours, sky-high housing prices, and diminishing returns on education. A 2022 survey by China Youth Daily found that over 68% of urban workers under 35 feel trapped in a cycle of overwork with no upward mobility.
| Issue | % of Young Workers Affected |
|---|---|
| Workweek > 60 hours | 42% |
| Monthly rent > 50% income | 37% |
| Feel career progress stalled | 68% |
| Considered quitting job due to stress | 54% |
Enter 'Tangping': The Quiet Pushback
In response, many chose 'Tangping'—literally 'lying flat'. It’s not laziness; it’s a conscious decision to step back from the rat race. Think minimal work, minimal consumption, maximum peace.
Advocates aren’t dropping out completely—they’re redefining success. One viral post read: "I’d rather sleep eight hours than chase promotions that cost my health."
Why This Matters
These trends signal a deeper societal fatigue. After decades of rapid growth, younger generations are questioning the 'hard work = reward' narrative. They’re trading hustle culture for mental well-being.
And while some officials criticize 'Tangping' as unpatriotic, its popularity reveals a need for structural change—not moral judgment.
The Bigger Picture
From tech workers quitting high-paying jobs to graduates choosing rural farming, 'Tangping' is evolving into a lifestyle movement. It’s not about giving up—it’s about reclaiming control.
In a world obsessed with productivity, saying 'no' has become radical. As one netizen put it: "If the system is broken, maybe lying down is the most honest response."