At the A1 level, you only need to know '油腻' (yóunì) in its most basic sense: describing food that has too much oil. When you go to a restaurant in China, you might find that some dishes are very different from what you are used to. If a dish makes your lips feel very oily or if it looks like it's swimming in oil, you can say '太油腻了' (tài yóunì le), which means 'too greasy.' This is a very useful phrase for beginners because it helps you express your food preferences. You can also use it to explain why you might not want to eat something. For example, '我不喜欢油腻的菜' (wǒ bù xǐhuān yóunì de cài) means 'I don't like greasy dishes.' At this stage, don't worry about the complicated social meanings. Just think of it as a word for 'too much oil.' You might also see it on menus or hear it when people talk about fried foods like '油条' (yóutiáo - fried dough sticks). Remember, '油' (yóu) is oil, and '腻' (nì) here means 'too much of something rich.' Together, they describe that heavy feeling in your stomach after eating something very fatty. It is a simple adjective that usually comes after '很' (hěn - very) or '太' (tài - too).
At the A2 level, you can start using '油腻' (yóunì) to describe more than just food. While you still use it for greasy meals ('这些薯条太油腻了'), you can also use it to describe physical hygiene and skin. For instance, after a long day of hiking or if you haven't washed your hair, you might say '我的头发很油腻' (wǒ de tóufa hěn yóunì), which means 'my hair is greasy.' This is a common way to talk about personal care. You will also learn the opposite of '油腻,' which is '清淡' (qīngdàn - light/bland). In Chinese culture, people often talk about the balance of food. If you eat something '油腻,' you should eat something '清淡' to balance it out. You can now use the word in more complex sentences with '因为...所以...' (yīnwèi... suǒyǐ... - because... therefore...). For example: '因为这道菜太油腻了,所以我不想吃' (Because this dish is too greasy, I don't want to eat it). You are also becoming aware that '油腻' is generally a negative word. Nobody wants their food, skin, or hair to be '油腻.' It is a word used for complaining or describing an unpleasant state.
By B1, you should be comfortable using '油腻' (yóunì) in various physical contexts and beginning to understand its metaphorical use. You can use it to describe the atmosphere or the state of a kitchen ('厨房里到处都是油腻腻的' - The kitchen is greasy everywhere). Notice the reduplication '油腻腻' (yóunì nì), which makes the description more vivid and slightly more informal. At this level, you will also encounter the word in health-related contexts. Doctors might tell you to '饮食要清淡,少吃油腻' (yǐnshí yào qīngdàn, shǎo chī yóunì), which means 'your diet should be light, eat less greasy food.' Here, '油腻' acts almost like a noun meaning 'greasy things.' You are also starting to hear '油腻' used to describe people, but you should use it cautiously. If you describe a person as '油腻,' you are saying they are not just physically oily, but also socially unpleasant or insincere. For example, '他说话的样子很油腻' (The way he speaks is very greasy/sleazy). This is a big step from just talking about fried chicken. You are now using the word to express a judgment about someone's character or social 'vibe.'
At the B2 level, you should master the cultural nuance of '油腻' (yóunì) as a social critique. This is where the word becomes a powerful tool for discussing modern Chinese society. You should be familiar with the term '油腻中年男' (yóunì zhōngnián nán - greasy middle-aged man), which is a specific social archetype in China. This refers to men who have become complacent, boastful, and perhaps a bit unkempt, often trying to use their age or status to impress others in an annoying way. You can use '油腻' to describe a style of writing, a performance, or a marketing campaign that feels 'too much' or 'trying too hard.' For example, '这篇小说的文笔太油腻了' (The writing style of this novel is too flowery/greasy). You understand that '油腻' is the opposite of '清爽' (qīngshuǎng - fresh/clean/crisp). When a celebrity is praised for being '清爽,' it means they lack the 'greasiness' of being over-manufactured or insincere. You can also use the word to discuss the 'Anti-Greasiness' (去油) trend, where people try to simplify their lives and characters. You are capable of explaining why certain behaviors are considered '油腻' in a Chinese cultural context, such as wearing too much jewelry or talking constantly about one's achievements.
At the C1 level, you can use '油腻' (yóunì) with precision in academic or professional discussions about culture and media. You can analyze how the meaning of '油腻' has shifted from a dietary concern to a symbol of 'spiritual stagnation' in the post-reform era of China. You might discuss how the 'greasy middle-aged man' phenomenon reflects societal anxieties about masculinity, aging, and class. You can use the word to critique art and literature, identifying 'greasiness' in works that are overly sentimental, derivative, or lacking in genuine emotion. For example, '这部电影的情感表达过于油腻,缺乏真实的力量' (The emotional expression of this movie is too greasy/sentimental, lacking genuine power). You are also aware of the linguistic flexibility of the word, using it in phrases like '去油' (qù yóu - to degrease) to describe the process of a person or a brand trying to regain a 'clean' and 'honest' image. You understand the subtle difference between '油腻' and similar terms like '庸俗' (yōngsú - vulgar) or '市侩' (shìkuài - philistine), and you can choose the right one based on whether you want to emphasize the 'slickness' of the person or their focus on money.
At the C2 level, your understanding of '油腻' (yóunì) is native-like and deeply rooted in the current zeitgeist. You can engage in deep philosophical or sociological debates about the 'greasiness' of modern life. You can discuss the etymology of the word and how it relates to the broader Chinese concept of '腻' (nì - being sated or bored), and how '油' (oil) acts as the catalyst for this feeling of repulsion. You can use the word sarcastically, ironically, or with great subtlety in high-level writing. You might write an essay on how the commercialization of everything has led to an 'oily' society where everyone is trying to sell a version of themselves. You can identify 'greasiness' not just in people, but in corporate structures, political rhetoric, and international relations. You are also familiar with the various internet memes and subcultures that have sprung up around this word, including the 'greasy' tropes in web novels or TV dramas. Your usage of '油腻' is no longer just about choosing the right adjective; it's about navigating the complex social and moral landscape of contemporary China with a single, evocative word.

油腻 in 30 Sekunden

  • Literally means greasy or oily, primarily used to describe food with excessive fat or oil content that feels heavy.
  • Commonly used to describe oily skin or hair, indicating a need for cleaning or a specific skin type.
  • Metaphorically describes a person (often middle-aged) who is perceived as sleazy, pretentious, boastful, or socially 'slick' in a negative way.
  • A key cultural term in modern China used to critique insincerity and spiritual stagnation in individuals and society.

The Chinese word 油腻 (yóunì) is a fascinating adjective that has evolved significantly in recent years. At its most basic, literal level, it describes something that is oily, greasy, or fatty. If you walk into a kitchen where the vents haven't been cleaned in months, the surfaces are 油腻. If you eat a piece of pork belly that is mostly fat, the sensation in your mouth is 油腻. However, in contemporary Chinese society, particularly on the internet, the word has taken on a much more complex, metaphorical meaning. It is now frequently used to describe a certain type of personality or behavior—often associated with middle-aged men—that is perceived as sleazy, pretentious, overly smooth, or socially 'cringe.' Understanding this shift from the culinary to the social is key to mastering the word.

Literal Meaning
Relating to food that contains an excessive amount of oil or fat, or surfaces covered in oil. It often carries a negative connotation of being 'too much' or 'heavy.'

这家餐厅的菜太油腻了,我吃不下。(The food at this restaurant is too greasy; I can't eat it.)

Metaphorical Meaning
Describing a person (usually male) who is perceived as insincere, overly flirtatious in an unwelcome way, or boastful about their status and wealth. It suggests a lack of spiritual or intellectual depth, replaced by a 'slick' exterior.

The term gained massive popularity around 2017 after an essay by writer Feng Tang titled 'How to Avoid Becoming a Greasy Middle-Aged Man' went viral. In it, he listed behaviors like being overweight, stopping learning, and showing off wealth as signs of 'greasiness.' Today, you might hear a young person describe a pop star's performance as '油腻' if they are winking too much at the camera or trying too hard to be 'sexy.' It has become a catch-all term for anything that feels forced, insincere, or physically and socially unappealing.

他不只是胖,言谈举止也很油腻。(He's not just fat; his way of speaking and behaving is also 'greasy.')

Usage in Skin Care
In the context of beauty, it describes oily skin or hair. '油腻的头发' (greasy hair) is a common phrase used when one hasn't showered for a few days.

In summary, while the word starts with the physical sensation of oil, its cultural weight lies in its ability to judge character. Whether you are talking about a fried dough stick or a man who won't stop bragging about his expensive watch, '油腻' is the perfect word to express that 'too much' feeling that makes you want to turn away.

Using 油腻 (yóunì) correctly requires understanding the context—are you in a kitchen, a doctor's office, or gossiping with friends? The word is predominantly an adjective, and it often follows the degree adverb '太' (tài - too) or '很' (hěn - very).

Describing Food
This is the most direct usage. It refers to the high fat or oil content. Example: '我不喜欢吃红烧肉,因为太油腻了。' (I don't like braised pork because it's too greasy.)

医生建议我少吃油腻的食物。(The doctor suggested I eat less greasy food.)

When you want to emphasize that something is *excessively* greasy to the point of being nauseating, you can use the phrase '油腻感' (yóunì gǎn - a feeling of greasiness). This is common in food reviews or when discussing skincare products that don't absorb well.

Describing Appearance and Hygiene
You can use it to describe physical traits. '油腻的皮肤' (oily skin) or '油腻的头发' (greasy hair). In this context, it is purely descriptive of a physical state.

The metaphorical usage is where things get interesting. When describing a person, you might say '他这个人很油腻' (He is a very greasy person). This implies he is worldly in a bad way—perhaps he uses too much flowery language, is overly aggressive in business, or acts like a 'pick-up artist.'

他的表演太油腻了,让人感觉不舒服。(His performance was too greasy; it made people feel uncomfortable.)

In a work context, you might hear '油腻的中年人' (greasy middle-aged people). This isn't just about age; it's about a lack of curiosity and an over-reliance on old tricks and social connections. It's a critique of a stagnant lifestyle.

Comparison with '油' (Oily)
While '油' is the noun for oil, '油腻' is specifically the adjective for the *quality* of being greasy. You wouldn't say 'this food is oil,' you say it is '油腻.'

You will encounter 油腻 (yóunì) in a variety of real-world settings, ranging from the mundane to the highly cultural. Understanding these contexts helps you grasp the word's full emotional weight.

In Restaurants and Homes
This is the most common place. If you are eating Sichuan hotpot or fried snacks, someone might say, '多喝点茶,解解油腻' (Drink some more tea to cut through the greasiness). The concept of '解腻' (jiěnì - to relieve greasiness) is a huge part of Chinese food culture.

这红烧肉虽然好吃,但吃多了还是觉得油腻。(Although this braised pork is delicious, it still feels greasy after eating a lot.)

On Chinese social media platforms like Weibo, Douyin (TikTok), and Xiaohongshu, '油腻' is a high-frequency buzzword. It is used in comment sections to criticize influencers or celebrities. For example, if a male idol tries to look cool by biting his lip or winking excessively, the comments will be flooded with '太油腻了' or '油腻感十足' (Full of greasiness).

In the workplace, the word is used to describe corporate culture. A '油腻' boss is one who talks in circles, uses buzzwords to hide a lack of substance, and forces subordinates to drink at dinners. It represents a type of 'old-school' corruption of spirit that the younger generation (Gen Z) particularly dislikes.

他那种老掉牙的社交方式真的很油腻。(His old-fashioned way of socializing is really greasy.)

In Skincare Advertisements
You will see slogans like '告别油腻' (Say goodbye to greasiness) on face washes and shampoos. Here, it refers to excess sebum. It's a very practical, everyday use of the word.

Finally, you might hear it in literary or film criticism to describe a style that is too florid or sentimental. If a movie has too many slow-motion shots and dramatic music without a good story, a critic might call it '油腻.'

While 油腻 (yóunì) seems straightforward, English speakers often make mistakes in its application, especially when trying to translate 'oily' or 'greasy' directly.

Mistake 1: Confusing '油' (yóu) and '油腻' (yóunì)
'油' is a noun (oil). You cannot say '这道菜很油' to mean 'this dish is greasy' in formal writing, though it is used in casual speech. '油腻' is the proper adjective to describe the *feeling* of too much oil.

Incorrect: 他的手很油。(His hands are oil.)
Correct: 他的手很油腻。(His hands are greasy.)

Mistake 2: Overusing the metaphorical meaning. While calling a person '油腻' is common in slang, it is quite an insult. You should avoid using it to describe someone you respect or in a formal setting unless you intend to be critical. It's much harsher than just saying someone is 'too much.'

Mistake 3: Misapplying it to 'slippery' things. '油腻' is about oil and fat, not about being physically slippery (which is '滑' huá). If a floor is wet with water, it is '滑,' not '油腻.' Only if there is actual oil on the floor would '油腻' (or '油滑') apply.

Mistake 4: Confusing '腻' (nì) and '油腻' (yóunì)
'腻' on its own can mean 'bored' or 'tired of something' (e.g., 我吃腻了 - I'm tired of eating this). '油腻' is specifically about the oily quality. Don't use '油腻' to say you are bored of a person.

Correct for boredom: 我听了他的借口。(I'm tired of hearing his excuses.)

Finally, ensure you don't confuse it with '脂肪' (zhīfáng - fat/lipid). '脂肪' is the biological substance, while '油腻' is the sensory description of the substance's presence.

To expand your vocabulary beyond 油腻 (yóunì), it's helpful to look at words that share its semantic space or offer a different nuance.

油 (yóu) - Oily/Oil
The root word. In casual speech, people often just say '太油了' (Too oily). It's less formal than '油腻' but very common.
腻 (nì) - Cloying/Bored
Focuses on the feeling of being 'overwhelmed' by something rich. It can apply to sweets as well as fats. '甜腻' (tiánnì) means 'cloyingly sweet.'

这蛋糕太甜了。(This cake is cloyingly sweet.)

When describing the metaphorical 'greasiness' of a person, you might also use 世俗 (shìsú), which means 'worldly' or 'secular,' but in a way that implies being obsessed with money and status. Another alternative is 猥琐 (wěisuǒ), which is much stronger and means 'wretched' or 'creepy' in a sexual or moral sense.

滑头 (huátóu) - Slippery/Cunning
Describes someone who is hard to pin down or dishonest. It shares the 'slick' quality of '油腻' but focuses more on trickery than on being unpleasant or pretentious.

For skincare, you might use 油光满面 (yóuguāng mǎnmiàn), which literally means 'face covered in oil light,' describing a very shiny, oily face. It's often used humorously or in ads.

夏天出门,总是一脸油光。(Going out in summer, my face is always full of oily shine.)

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The modern metaphorical use of '油腻' exploded in 2017 because of a viral essay. It turned a cooking term into a powerful tool for generational warfare, as young people used it to describe the older generation's perceived moral decay.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /jəʊ niː/
US /joʊ niː/
The stress is equal on both syllables, but the falling tone on 'nì' often makes it sound more emphatic.
Reimt sich auf
游离 (yóulí) 有利 (yǒulì) 忧虑 (yōulǜ) 犹豫 (yóuyù) 流利 (liúlì) 美丽 (měilì) 努力 (nǔlì) 体力 (tǐlì)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing 'yóu' as 'yoo'.
  • Missing the rising tone on 'yóu', making it sound flat.
  • Pronouncing 'nì' with a rising tone, which changes the meaning.
  • Forgetting the 'i' sound in 'nì', pronouncing it like 'nuh'.
  • Confusing the 'n' in 'nì' with an 'l' sound (common in some southern dialects).

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

The characters are relatively simple, but the metaphorical meaning requires cultural context.

Schreiben 3/5

The character '腻' is slightly complex to write by hand.

Sprechen 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward if tones are mastered.

Hören 2/5

Commonly used in movies and social media.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

油 (Oil) 肉 (Meat) 吃 (Eat) 很 (Very) 太 (Too)

Als Nächstes lernen

清淡 (Light food) 爽口 (Refreshing food) 世俗 (Worldly) 圆滑 (Slick) 去油 (To degrease/improve oneself)

Fortgeschritten

矫揉造作 (Pretentious) 厚颜无耻 (Shameless) 市侩 (Philistine) 庸俗 (Vulgar)

Wichtige Grammatik

Adjective Reduplication (AAB/ABB)

油腻腻 (yóunìnì) - very greasy/oily.

The use of '太...了' for complaints

太油腻了! (Too greasy!)

Adjectives as Nouns

少吃油腻 (Eat less greasy [food]).

Using '感' to form abstract nouns

油腻感 (Sense/feeling of greasiness).

Resultative complements with '腻'

吃腻了 (Eat until bored/sick of it).

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

这道菜太油腻了。

This dish is too greasy.

Subject + Adverb (太) + Adjective (油腻) + 了.

2

我不喜欢油腻的食物。

I don't like greasy food.

Adjective (油腻) + de + Noun (食物).

3

炸鸡很油腻。

Fried chicken is very greasy.

Simple Subject-Predicate sentence.

4

这个肉太油腻。

This meat is too greasy.

Focusing on the 'fatty' aspect of meat.

5

我喜欢清淡的,不喜欢油腻的。

I like light food, not greasy food.

Contrast between '清淡' and '油腻'.

6

油腻的东西不好吃。

Greasy things are not tasty.

Using '东西' as a general noun.

7

那家店的菜很油腻。

The food at that shop is very greasy.

Describing the quality of a restaurant's food.

8

太油腻了,我不想吃。

It's too greasy, I don't want to eat.

Expressing a preference using '不想'.

1

你的头发看起来有点油腻。

Your hair looks a bit greasy.

Using '看起来' (looks like).

2

少吃油腻的,对身体好。

Eat less greasy food, it's good for your health.

Using '少吃' (eat less) as advice.

3

这盘菜油腻腻的,我不喜欢。

This dish is all greasy, I don't like it.

Reduplication '油腻腻' for emphasis.

4

这种洗发水可以洗掉油腻。

This shampoo can wash away the grease.

Using '油腻' as a noun-like object.

5

他的皮肤很油腻,经常长痘痘。

His skin is very oily; he often gets pimples.

Connecting oiliness to skin issues.

6

我不想要这种油腻的感觉。

I don't want this greasy feeling.

Using '感觉' (feeling).

7

厨房的墙壁变得很油腻。

The kitchen walls have become very greasy.

Using '变得' (become).

8

吃完油腻的食物,可以喝点绿茶。

After eating greasy food, you can drink some green tea.

Using '吃完...可以...' structure.

1

这红烧肉虽然香,但吃两块就觉得油腻了。

Although this braised pork is fragrant, I feel it's greasy after two pieces.

Conjunction '虽然...但...'.

2

他那个人说话油腻,我不喜欢跟他聊天。

He talks in a 'greasy' way; I don't like chatting with him.

First introduction to metaphorical usage.

3

这种面霜涂在脸上太油腻了,不适合夏天用。

This face cream is too greasy on the face; it's not suitable for summer.

Context of skincare and seasons.

4

医生叮嘱我要远离油腻和辛辣的食物。

The doctor urged me to stay away from greasy and spicy food.

Using '远离' (stay away from).

5

这件衣服上沾了油腻的污渍,很难洗掉。

There are greasy stains on this clothing; they are hard to wash off.

Describing stains.

6

我不喜欢这种油腻的社交场合。

I don't like this kind of 'greasy' social occasion.

Applying 'greasy' to an atmosphere.

7

他的表演有点油腻,试图表现得太帅了。

His performance is a bit 'greasy'; he's trying too hard to look handsome.

Criticizing an acting style.

8

喝杯柠檬水可以解解油腻。

Drinking a glass of lemon water can relieve the greasiness.

Using '解' (relieve/cut through).

1

网络上流行一个词叫“油腻中年男”。

There is a popular term on the internet called 'greasy middle-aged man.'

Discussing internet slang/culture.

2

他的文字风格过于华丽,反而显得有些油腻。

His writing style is overly ornate, which instead makes it seem a bit 'greasy.'

Using '反而' (instead/on the contrary).

3

为了不让自己变得油腻,他开始坚持健身和读书。

To prevent himself from becoming 'greasy,' he started to persist in fitness and reading.

Using '为了不让...' (in order not to let...).

4

那种油腻的处世哲学,我不屑一顾。

I look down upon that kind of 'greasy' philosophy of life.

Using the idiom '不屑一顾' (to look down upon).

5

这个广告拍得太油腻,让人尴尬。

This commercial was filmed in such a 'greasy' way that it makes people embarrassed.

Describing media content.

6

他那副油腻的笑容背后,隐藏着不为人知的目的。

Behind that 'greasy' smile of his, there is a hidden purpose.

Describing facial expressions with hidden intent.

7

我们要警惕职场中的油腻文化。

We should be wary of the 'greasy' culture in the workplace.

Using '警惕' (be wary of).

8

这道汤虽然浓,但并不油腻,非常爽口。

Although this soup is thick, it's not greasy at all; it's very refreshing.

Using '并不' (not at all) for emphasis.

1

这种过度包装的偶像,往往给人一种油腻的感觉。

This kind of over-packaged idol often gives people a 'greasy' feeling.

Critiquing the entertainment industry.

2

他那种世故圆滑的谈吐,被很多年轻人视为油腻的表现。

His sophisticated and slick way of speaking is seen by many young people as a sign of 'greasiness.'

Using '被...视为...' (is seen by... as...).

3

文章如果缺乏真情实感,堆砌辞藻,就会显得油腻不堪。

If an article lacks genuine emotion and just piles up flowery words, it will appear unbearably 'greasy.'

Using '不堪' (unbearably) after an adjective.

4

如何摆脱中年危机中的油腻感,是当代男性关注的话题。

How to get rid of the 'greasiness' in a middle-age crisis is a topic of concern for contemporary men.

Abstract noun usage of '油腻感'.

5

他在政坛混迹多年,早已变得油腻而老练。

Having been in politics for many years, he has long since become 'greasy' and experienced.

Describing professional character evolution.

6

这种油腻的营销手段,虽然短期有效,但会损害品牌形象。

This kind of 'greasy' marketing tactic, though effective in the short term, will damage the brand image.

Discussing business strategy.

7

他的艺术风格在后期逐渐变得油腻,失去了早期的灵动。

His artistic style gradually became 'greasy' in his later period, losing its early agility.

Critiquing artistic evolution.

8

我们应当追求一种清爽、自然的生活方式,拒绝油腻。

We should pursue a fresh and natural lifestyle and reject 'greasiness.'

Using '拒绝' (reject) as a lifestyle choice.

1

所谓“油腻”,本质上是一种对生活的热情丧失后,用世俗经验来填充的空虚。

The so-called 'greasiness' is essentially a void filled with worldly experience after the loss of passion for life.

Deep philosophical definition.

2

当代文学中对“油腻”的消解,反映了审美趣味的某种转向。

The deconstruction of 'greasiness' in contemporary literature reflects a certain shift in aesthetic taste.

Academic literary criticism.

3

他试图通过自嘲来化解身上的油腻感,但效果并不理想。

He tried to dissipate the 'greasiness' on him through self-deprecation, but the effect was not ideal.

Discussing social dynamics and self-perception.

4

在资本的浸泡下,很多原本纯粹的艺术形式也开始散发出油腻的气息。

Soaked in capital, many originally pure art forms have begun to emit a 'greasy' aura.

Metaphorical 'aura' or 'breath' (气息).

5

这种话术背后隐藏的逻辑极其油腻,充满了对听众的智商羞辱。

The logic hidden behind this way of speaking is extremely 'greasy,' full of insults to the audience's intelligence.

Critiquing rhetoric and logic.

6

拒绝油腻,不仅是拒绝肥胖和邋遢,更是拒绝一种精神上的平庸与沉沦。

Rejecting 'greasiness' is not just rejecting obesity and sloppiness, but also rejecting a spiritual mediocrity and sinking.

Parallel structure for emphasis.

7

他那油腻的表演痕迹太重,完全无法让观众产生共鸣。

His 'greasy' acting traces are too heavy, making it completely impossible for the audience to resonate.

Discussing the 'traces' (痕迹) of performance.

8

在这个喧嚣的时代,保持一份不油腻的初心显得尤为珍贵。

In this noisy era, maintaining an 'ungreasy' original intention appears particularly precious.

Using '尤为' (especially).

Häufige Kollokationen

油腻食物
油腻中年男
油腻感
解油腻
油腻腻
皮肤油腻
言语油腻
摆脱油腻
油腻大叔
去除油腻

Häufige Phrasen

油腻的中年人

— Refers to middle-aged people who are perceived as having lost their ideals and becoming worldly/sleazy.

他努力健身,不想成为一个油腻的中年人。

少吃油腻

— A common piece of health advice to eat less fatty food.

为了减肥,他决定少吃油腻。

解腻

— To remove the feeling of greasiness after eating rich food.

吃完烤肉喝点酸梅汤,特别解腻。

油腻感十足

— Full of a greasy feeling, usually describing a person's behavior or a performance.

那个演员的表演油腻感十足。

告别油腻

— Saying goodbye to greasiness, often used in skincare or lifestyle ads.

告别油腻,从今天开始清淡饮食。

油腻的笑

— A slick, insincere, or slightly creepy smile.

他露出了一个油腻的笑。

满脸油腻

— A face covered in oil/sebum.

下班回家,满脸油腻。

清淡去油

— Eating light to remove the 'greasiness' from the body.

春节过后,大家都在清淡去油。

油腻的情话

— Cringey, overly sentimental, or insincere romantic lines.

他说那些油腻的情话,让我起鸡皮疙瘩。

油腻的套路

— Slick, predictable, and insincere social or business tricks.

这些都是职场中油腻的套路。

Wird oft verwechselt mit

油腻 vs 油 (yóu)

'油' is the noun 'oil'. '油腻' is the adjective 'greasy'. You can't say 'a bottle of 油腻'.

油腻 vs 滑 (huá)

'滑' means slippery (like ice). '油腻' means greasy. Something can be slippery because it is greasy, but they are not the same.

油腻 vs 腻 (nì)

'腻' alone often means 'bored with' or 'tired of'. '油腻' specifically involves oil.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"肥而不腻"

— Fatty but not greasy; used to praise meat that is rich but delicious without being heavy.

这里的东坡肉肥而不腻。

Positive / Culinary
"油头粉面"

— Oily head and powdered face; describes a man who is overly groomed in a dandyish or superficial way.

他整天油头粉面的,不像个干活的人。

Negative / Descriptive
"油腔滑调"

— Slick-tongued and flippant; describes a person who speaks in a glib, insincere manner.

这个人油腔滑调,不可信任。

Negative / Personality
"油嘴滑舌"

— Glib-tongued; very similar to 油腔滑调, emphasizing a smooth but untrustworthy way of talking.

别听他油嘴滑舌地瞎编。

Informal / Negative
"脑满肠肥"

— Full-brained and fat-bellied; describes a person who lives in luxury but is ignorant and useless.

那些脑满肠肥的家伙只知道享受。

Highly Negative
"金玉其外,败絮其中"

— Beautiful on the outside, rotten on the inside; can be related to the 'greasy' person who looks successful but lacks character.

他看起来很有钱,其实是金玉其外,败絮其中。

Literary
"世故圆滑"

— Worldly-wise and full of tricks; describes the 'greasy' trait of being too socially slick.

他在社会上混久了,变得非常世故圆滑。

Neutral / Negative
"华而不实"

— Flashy but without substance; similar to the 'greasy' style of writing or performing.

他的演讲华而不实。

Formal
"矫揉造作"

— Artificial and pretentious; describes the forced behavior often called 'greasy.'

她的演技矫揉造作。

Formal
"厚颜无耻"

— Shameless; sometimes used to describe the bold, 'greasy' behavior of certain people.

他竟然厚颜无耻地要求加薪。

Strongly Negative

Leicht verwechselbar

油腻 vs 脂肪 (zhīfáng)

Both relate to fat.

'脂肪' is a biological noun (fat cells). '油腻' is a sensory adjective (greasy feeling).

这种食物含有大量脂肪,吃起来很油腻。

油腻 vs 肥 (féi)

Both describe fatness.

'肥' usually describes animals or meat pieces. '油腻' describes the overall quality of the dish or experience.

这块肉很肥,做成菜可能太油腻。

油腻 vs 浓郁 (nóngyù)

Both describe strong flavors.

'浓郁' is positive (rich, fragrant). '油腻' is negative (excessively greasy).

汤的味道很浓郁,一点也不油腻。

油腻 vs 圆滑 (yuánhuá)

Both describe 'slick' people.

'圆滑' focuses on being tactful and avoiding conflict. '油腻' focuses on being sleazy and pretentious.

他说话很圆滑,但并不油腻。

油腻 vs 世俗 (shìsú)

Both describe worldly people.

'世俗' is broader, referring to common or materialistic values. '油腻' is a specific, modern, negative aesthetic judgment.

他追求世俗的成功,行为也变得油腻了。

Satzmuster

A1

这[Noun]太油腻了。

这道菜太油腻了。

A2

我不喜欢[Adjective]的[Noun]。

我不喜欢油腻的食物。

B1

[Noun]虽然...但很油腻。

这肉虽然香,但很油腻。

B2

让人感到[Adjective]。

他的表演让人感到油腻。

C1

所谓的[Term]就是...。

所谓的油腻就是一种世故。

C2

与其说...不如说...。

与其说他胖,不如说他油腻。

A2

[Body Part]很油腻。

他的头发很油腻。

B1

[Verb]点[Noun]来解腻。

喝点茶来解腻。

Wortfamilie

Substantive

油脂 (yóuzhī) - grease/fat
油烟 (yóuyān) - lampblack/cooking oil fumes
腻烦 (nìfán) - boredom/annoyance

Verben

腻 (nì) - to be bored with
加油 (jiāyóu) - to add oil/refuel/cheer on

Adjektive

油 (yóu) - oily
腻 (nì) - cloying
油滑 (yóuhuá) - slippery/slick

Verwandt

脂肪 (zhīfáng)
清淡 (qīngdàn)
清爽 (qīngshuǎng)
肥胖 (féipàng)
世俗 (shìsú)

So verwendest du es

frequency

Extremely high in food and social contexts.

Häufige Fehler
  • Using '油腻' for a wet floor. 使用“滑”。

    '油腻' implies oil. If it's just water, use '滑' (huá).

  • Saying '我油腻了' to mean 'I am tired of this'. 使用“我腻了”。

    '油腻' is an adjective for a thing. '腻' is the verb for being bored/sated.

  • Thinking '油腻' is a positive word for 'juicy'. 使用“多汁”。

    '油腻' is always negative. '多汁' (duōzhī) is the positive word for juicy.

  • Using '油腻' to describe a person's weight only. 使用“肥胖”。

    A person can be thin but '油腻' in behavior, or fat but '清爽' in spirit.

  • Confusing '油腻' with '奶油' (cream). N/A

    They sound slightly similar in some contexts but are unrelated. '奶油' is a noun.

Tipps

Food Feedback

If you are at a friend's house, be careful! Saying their food is '油腻' is quite rude. Use '味道很重' (flavor is strong) instead.

Internet Trends

If you see '油腻' on Weibo, look at the pictures. It's often used for male celebrities who are trying too hard to be sexy.

Doctor's Advice

If a Chinese doctor says '忌油腻' (jì yóunì), it means you must strictly avoid greasy food during your recovery.

Product Choice

Look for '清爽不油腻' on sunscreens. It's the most common way to say 'non-greasy formula'.

Avoid being 'Greasy'

To avoid being called '油腻' in China, don't brag about your salary and don't give unsolicited advice to younger people.

Degree Adverbs

'油腻' is almost always paired with '太' or '很'. It's rarely used alone.

Rich vs Greasy

Remember: '浓郁' = Good Rich, '油腻' = Bad Greasy.

Visual Cues

Think of the '月' radical in '腻' as a piece of meat. Meat + Oil = 油腻.

Tea Pairing

In Guangdong, 'Yam Cha' (drinking tea) is the ultimate way to combat '油腻' food.

Self-Correction

If someone calls you '油腻', don't take it as a compliment on your skin. They are criticizing your vibe!

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a piece of 'Oil' (油) that you have eaten so much of that you are now 'Sated/Bored' (腻) and want to stop. That feeling is '油腻'.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a middle-aged man in a suit with a very shiny, oily face, holding a piece of greasy fried chicken and winking at you. That image captures both the literal and metaphorical '油腻'.

Word Web

Food Skin Hair Personality Sleazy Pretentious Oil Grease

Herausforderung

Try to find three things in your kitchen that are '油腻' and one person in a TV show who acts '油腻'. Write a sentence for each.

Wortherkunft

The word is a combination of '油' (oil/fat) and '腻' (to be sated/bored with food). It originally described the physical state of food that was so fatty it caused a feeling of aversion.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Greasy, oily, causing nausea due to excess fat.

Sino-Tibetan

Kultureller Kontext

Calling someone '油腻' is a personal insult. Use it for food or general social commentary, but be careful when directing it at individuals you know.

In English, we might say someone is 'slick,' 'sleazy,' or 'creepy,' but 'greasy' captures a unique blend of these in Chinese.

Feng Tang's essay 'How to Avoid Becoming a Greasy Middle-Aged Man'. The variety show 'Shine! Super Brothers' where many male stars were called '油腻'. Common dietary advice in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

At a Restaurant

  • 这菜太油腻了。
  • 有没有清淡点的?
  • 我想喝茶解腻。
  • 我不吃油腻的。

At the Doctor

  • 少吃油腻食物。
  • 饮食要清淡。
  • 油腻会影响消化。
  • 对肝脏不好。

Skincare/Beauty

  • 皮肤容易油腻。
  • 头发很油腻。
  • 清爽不油腻。
  • 告别油腻感。

Social Media Criticism

  • 表演太油腻。
  • 油腻中年男。
  • 去油成功。
  • 油腻感十足。

Cleaning the House

  • 厨房很油腻。
  • 抹布油腻腻的。
  • 强力去油腻。
  • 到处是油烟。

Gesprächseinstiege

"你觉得这家餐厅的菜油腻吗?"

"你平时怎么解油腻?"

"你对“油腻中年男”这个词怎么看?"

"你喜欢清淡的食物还是油腻的食物?"

"你觉得哪个明星的表演比较油腻?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

描述一次你吃到最油腻的食物的经历。你当时的感觉如何?

你认为一个人变得“油腻”的主要原因是什么?我们该如何避免?

写一写你对“清爽”和“油腻”这两种生活态度的理解。

如果一个朋友被别人说“油腻”,你会怎么安慰他?

分析一下为什么“油腻”这个词在现代中国互联网上这么流行。

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Almost never. In 99% of cases, '油腻' is a negative description. If you want to praise rich food, use '肥而不腻' (fatty but not greasy) or '浓郁' (rich).

While the slang '油腻中年男' is specifically for men, the adjective can describe anyone's behavior, style, or performance if it feels insincere or 'too much'.

You can say '油性皮肤' (oily skin type) or describe the state as '皮肤很油腻'.

In China, people usually drink tea (especially Pu-erh or green tea), eat hawthorn (山楂), or drink vinegar-based soups.

Yes, if you are discussing social trends or health. It is a standard word in the Chinese lexicon.

Only if you are talking about the engine being covered in grease. You wouldn't use it for the car's 'personality'.

It means to change one's behavior or appearance to be less 'greasy'—usually by becoming more humble, fit, or sincere.

Yes. '油滋滋' (yóuzīzī) often describes sizzling, juicy food and can be positive. '油腻' is almost always negative.

The character '腻' contains the 'flesh' radical (月/肉), indicating its original connection to fatty meat.

Yes, '油腻的味道' can describe the heavy smell of old cooking oil in a kitchen.

Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen

writing

Write a sentence using '油腻' to describe food you don't like.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe a person's hair using '油腻'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Give a piece of health advice using '油腻'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use '油腻' to describe an insincere person.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence with '解油腻'.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe a kitchen that needs cleaning.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use '油腻感' in a skincare context.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a short critique of a bad performance using '油腻'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Explain why someone might want to '去油'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use '油腻' to describe a writing style.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Compare '油腻' and '清爽'.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about '油腻中年男'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use '油腻' to describe an office culture.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe a greasy stain on clothes.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about avoiding '油腻' in life.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe the feeling after eating too much fat.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use '油腻' in a sarcastic way.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Explain the literal meaning of '油腻'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use '油腻腻' to describe a child.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a formal sentence about dietary health.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce '油腻' correctly with tones.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'This food is too greasy' in Chinese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ask a waiter for something 'light' because the food is too greasy.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Tell a friend their hair looks greasy in a polite way.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explain to someone why you don't like a certain celebrity using '油腻'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Advise someone to drink tea after a heavy meal.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe a 'greasy middle-aged man' in your own words.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I want a non-greasy face cream' in a store.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Use '油腻' to describe a cringey romantic line.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Discuss the 'anti-greasiness' trend on the internet.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe a dirty kitchen using '油腻腻'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'He has become very worldly and greasy' in Chinese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ask a doctor if you should avoid greasy food.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'This pork belly is fatty but not greasy'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Reject a 'greasy' social dinner invitation.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Talk about why summer makes skin greasy.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Criticize a flowery writing style.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I feel greasy after eating this'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Use '油腻' to describe a marketing trick.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explain the cultural meaning of '油腻' to a foreigner.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '多吃蔬菜,少吃油腻。' What is the advice?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '他的演技被批评太油腻。' What was criticized?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '厨房里油腻腻的,真难受。' How does the speaker feel?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '这杯茶特别解腻。' What does the tea do?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '他不想变成油腻的中年人。' What is he trying to avoid?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '脸上的油腻感让他不舒服。' What is causing the discomfort?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '这款乳液清爽不油腻。' What are the features of the lotion?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '离那个油腻的男人远点。' What is the speaker warning?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '这肉肥而不腻,非常好吃。' Is the meat good?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '别用你油腻的手碰我的电脑。' What should the person do?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '他的文笔太油腻,我不喜欢。' Does the speaker like the writing?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '春节期间吃得太油腻了,得减减肥。' Why does the speaker need to lose weight?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '去油腻是当代男性的必修课。' What is a required task for modern men?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '这道汤太油腻,换一碗吧。' What is the request?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '他那副油腔滑调的样子真油腻。' What is being described?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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