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This week, the linguistics journal Yaowen Jiaozi《咬文嚼字》(Yǎo Wén Jiáo Zì) unveiled its list of the top ten buzzwords of 2024, showcasing the most prominent linguistic trends and popular phrases of the year.
Let's dive into their findings 🔍
Top 10 Buzzwords of 2024The term "buzzword" in Chinese can be translated as 流行词 (liúxíngcí) or 热词 (rècí). Both terms refer to popular words or phrases that gain widespread usage and attention within a certain period, often reflecting the current cultural, social, or technological trends.流行词 (liúxíngcí) ∙ buzzword; popular word热词 (rècí) ∙ buzzword; popular wordÈr líng èr sì nián shí dà liúxíngyǔTop 10 buzzwords of 2024Like in 2023, this year's buzzwords also highlight a variety of terms tied to AI and technology. For example, the concept of 数智化 (shùzhìhuà) envisions a future where human and machine intelligence work together to optimize processes and solve complex problems.
02. Intelligence with GoodwillThis term emphasizes the ethical use of AI to create positive, beneficial impacts on society. It highlights the idea of using technology to contribute to the greater good.
lit. (intelligence-for-good)未来产业 (wèilái chǎnyè), or future industries include areas like future manufacturing, information, materials, energy, space, and health. Developments in these fields will bring major changes to China's economy and impact the global economy.
The phrase "City不City" went viral after a foreign travel vlogger* used it to assess if certain places or activities were "city enough".*City熊 (WeChat Video Channel)![]()
City不city
City bu city
to describe places, outfits, or
experiences that have a stylish vibe.
City不city is used by internet users to playfully question if something embodies the vibe of "city" - meaning trendy, modern, or sophisticated like city life. For example:Zhèyàng chuāndā city bu city?lit. "This-outfit-city-not-city?"硬控 (yìng kòng) is used to describe something that captures someone's attention so strongly that they can't look away.The term originally came from gaming, where it referred to a skill that prevents players from controlling their character for a certain period.Zhè bù diànshìjù tài hǎokàn le,yìng kòng wǒ yì zhěng wǎn.it kept me hooked all night.06. Energetically & LivelyMany netizens began using the phrase in creative ways, pairing "水灵灵地 shuǐ línglíng de" with various words to describe something fresh, lively, or worth noticing.🤓 地 (de) connects an adjective or descriptive phrase to a verb, showing how the action is performed.Wǒmen shuǐ línglíng de kāishǐ le lǚxíng.We started the trip with excitement.班味 (bānwèi) refers to the tired and worn-out appearance people have from work and after handling heavy tasks and stressful conditions.the state of being at workAs the term gained popularity, people began discussing ways to get rid of this "work flavor" by taking breaks, going on vacation, socializing, or enjoying entertainment to balance work and life. This led to the use of the phrase:
to take a break; go on vacationlit. "to get rid of the work smell"08. A State of RelaxationIn contrast to the tiredness described by 班味 (bānwèi), another buzzword in 2024 refers to a feeling of relaxation, ease, or unwinding. It describes a state where the body and mind are free from stress or tension.
🤓 In 2024, during the Paris Olympics, 松弛感 (sōngchígǎn) became a hot topic online. Chinese athletes from the post-2000 generation impressed everyone with their "relaxed vibe". They handled pressure with ease, showcasing the "relaxed confidence" of the new generation.It's no secret that older people are highly respected for their wisdom and experience. The term 银发力量 (yínfà lìliàng) shows how much influence the elderly have in society.power of the elder generation🤓 The term uses "银发 yínfà" (silver hair) as a metaphor for older people.10. Young but Talented PeopleThis term is used to describe young children who are exceptionally talented in certain fields. These children stand out due to their remarkable abilities, and are often admired by adults for their skills, despite their young age.exceptionally talented childrenlit. (little-kid-brother / little-kid-sister)
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