Cause of concern

One of the latest expressions to cause concern is fo xi, or Buddha-like, which some young people use to describe themselves, as they care little about wealth, material life, or personal achievements.

While many people think the popularity of such words reflects a lack of motivation among the younger generation, Chen believes they are an "expression of feelings", which is a good thing for society.

"Emotions are easily exaggerated when they are expressed on the internet, and subtle feelings in society are often expressed in an exaggerated way. It is good that young people are willing to vent their feelings in cyberspace," he said.

Other popular expressions have appeared in recent years. Young people often say they are tu, or bald. Chen said this does not mean they are bald, but that they face so much pressure their hair is falling out. "It is self-mockery," he said.

Another expression is jin li, or colorful carp, which is a sign of good luck on the internet, as young people like to send colorful carp emojis to wish one another good fortune.

Chen said forwarding such emojis does not mean young people are becoming superstitious, adding that such expressions demand further study, as they convey feelings in society.

Cui, who started work with the animation company after leaving her job with a training institution that was reducing headcount, said: "I have always wanted a job in the animation industry, although there is a lot of overtime in this business and the pay is not that good. I want to give it a try and find the industry that best suits me."