PUA
PUA
Psychological manipulation — used broadly to describe gaslighting, emotional manipulation, or toxic behavior by bosses, partners, etc.
Origin & Background
Originally from English "Pick-Up Artist," but in Chinese context it expanded to mean any form of psychological manipulation, especially in workplaces.
Examples
My boss is totally PUA-ing me by saying I'm not good enough.
别被老板PUA了。(Don't let your boss gaslight you.)
Related Slang
凡尔赛
fán ěr sài
Humble-bragging — showing off wealth or achievements while pretending to be modest or complaining.
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xiù ēn ài
Showing off affection / PDA — couples who publicly display their relationship in an over-the-top way.
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jī wá
Tiger parenting on steroids — pushing children extremely hard academically with endless tutoring and activities.
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Shrimp head — describes someone who is attractive from behind but disappointing from the front.
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