Often-Used Chinese Tags In Novels

Chasing Wife Crematorium (追妻火葬场)

– Refers to a trope where a character (often the male lead) mistreats their love interest, only to realize their worth after losing them. The “crematorium” symbolizes deep regret and emotional suffering when trying to win them back. This trope often involves angst, redemption, and groveling.

• Typical Plot:

  • The protagonist initially neglects or misunderstands their partner. After a breakup or significant event, they desperately try to reconcile.

• Example:

  • The male lead divorces the female lead, later discovering she was the love of his life.

Green Tea (绿茶)

– Describes a character (usually female) who appears pure and innocent but is cunning and manipulative. Known for acting sweet and kind while subtly creating drama or sabotaging others. Sweet and demure in public, but calculative in private. Uses subtle manipulation to gain favor or destroy rivals.

• Example:

  • A secondary female character who pretends to be a victim to gain the male lead’s sympathy.

White Moonlight (白月光)

– Refers to a character who is an idealized, unattainable love interest, often representing nostalgia or “what could have been.” Symbolizes purity and longing. Sometimes the protagonist’s first love or someone they can never forget. Can create conflict if they return or are compared to the main love interest.

• Example:

  • A man pines for his White Moonlight, only to realize his true love is someone else.

Substituting the Bride (替身梗)

– A trope where the main character (usually female) enters a relationship or marriage because they resemble someone else (often the male lead’s first love). Focuses on themes of identity, self-worth, and overcoming insecurity.

• Example:

  • The female lead marries the male lead, only to discover he sees her as a substitute for his White Moonlight.

Black Lotus (黑莲花)

– A character who pretends to be fragile and kind but is actually ruthless and vengeful. Similar to “Green Tea” but more overtly dangerous and manipulative. Exudes charm and elegance while plotting revenge or destruction.

White Lotus (白莲花)

– Describes a character who appears kind and virtuous but is deceitful and self-serving. Less overtly manipulative than a Black Lotus but still harmful. Pretends to be innocent and righteous to gain sympathy or power.

Face Slapping (打脸)

– A trope where a protagonist exposes or humiliates their adversaries, often after being underestimated or wronged. Involves poetic justice and satisfying moments of comeuppance.

• Example:

  • A scorned protagonist proves their worth by achieving success and humiliating those who doubted them.

Scum Gong/Shou (渣攻/渣受)

• • Scum Gong (渣攻):

    A cruel or indifferent seme (dominant male character) who mistreats the shou.

  • Scum Shou (渣受):

    A manipulative or unfaithful uke (submissive male character).

  • Often tied to redemption arcs or tragedy.

Villainous Female Supporting Character (恶毒女配)

– A trope where a female antagonist (often a rival love interest) is portrayed as malicious and petty. Common in revenge or transmigration novels where the main character confronts or defeats her.

Golden Finger (金手指)

– Refers to a protagonist’s cheat-like ability, resource, or advantage that ensures their success. Can include special powers, knowledge from another life, or access to advanced technology.

Overpowered Protagonist (大佬)

– Focuses on characters who are exceedingly strong, intelligent, or influential. Often starts with the protagonist hiding their power until a critical moment.

Farming Life (种田文)

– A subgenre focusing on rural life, agriculture, and building a peaceful, prosperous life. Often includes themes of self-sufficiency, family bonds, and healing.

HE/BE/SE (Happy Ending/Bad Ending/Sad Ending)

• • HE (Happy Ending): Characters achieve their goals and end happily.

  • BE (Bad Ending): Tragic outcomes, often involving death or separation.

  • SE (Sad Ending): A bittersweet conclusion with mixed emotions.

Mary Sue (玛丽苏):

– Refers to a flawless character who is overly perfect and adored by everyone. Can be a male version (“Gary Stu”).

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