抽象
chōu xiàng
Abstract — when something is so bizarre, confusing, or absurd that you're speechless. The 2024 catch-all for "what am I even looking at."
Origin
Originally an art term, co-opted by Chinese internet culture in 2024 to describe any bewildering behavior. Closely tied to "抽象文化" (abstract culture) — intentionally chaotic humor.
Examples
His breakup text was so 抽象 I couldn't even respond.
这个操作太抽象了。(This move is too abstract.)
Related terms
绝绝子
jué jué zǐ
Absolutely amazing / Absolutely terrible — an emphatic expression that can be positive or negative depending on context.
社死
shè sǐ
Social death — an extremely embarrassing moment that makes you want to disappear.
EMO/emo
emo
Feeling down, sad, or melancholic — used when experiencing a wave of negative emotions.
牛/牛逼
niú / niú bī
Awesome / badass — strong praise for something impressive or someone skilled.