PUA

PUA

Psychological manipulation — used broadly to describe gaslighting, emotional manipulation, or toxic behavior by bosses, partners, etc.

Origin

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 terms

显眼包

xiǎn yǎn bāo

An 'attention-grabber' — a person, animal, or thing that grabs everyone's attention through a loud personality, bold appearance, or conspicuous antics; the class clown or show-off, now usually warm and teasing rather than harsh.

嘴替

zuǐ tì

Literally 'mouth substitute' — someone who voices an opinion exactly the way you wish you could, saying what's in your head but more clearly, bravely, or eloquently; 'they took the words right out of my mouth.'

凡尔赛

fán ěr sài

Humble-bragging — showing off wealth or achievements while pretending to be modest or complaining.

秀狗/秀恩爱

xiù ēn ài

Showing off affection / PDA — couples who publicly display their relationship in an over-the-top way.