“City不City”: A Viral Phrase Explained

An American blogger, Bao Bao Bear, has taken the internet by storm with short videos documenting his travels in China. In one video, he and his sister have a playful conversation:
“Is Shanghai city or not?”
“So city! Totally city!”
The word city originally refers to a city or something urbanized. However, Bao Bao Bear explained that in his dialogue, city means fashionable, stylish, modern, and also conveys excitement and enjoyment.
“City不city” essentially translates to “fashionable or not,” “stylish or not,” or “modern or not.” Saying “好city” means something is exciting, fun, and enjoyable. After Bao Bao Bear’s video went viral, “city不city” became a hugely popular catchphrase.
Since China implemented its 144-hour visa-free transit policy, more and more foreign visitors have been traveling to China. Videos showcasing these experiences have become a “traffic goldmine” for many international bloggers. Stunning scenery, delicious food, high-speed trains, and the warm hospitality of the Chinese people have led foreign visitors to enthusiastically describe their experiences as “so city.”
The Rise of “City不City”
“City不city” has become a trending phrase across various contexts, including travel, fashion, and daily life. For example:
– When planning a trip, asking if a city is “city不city” means asking whether the city has a modern, metropolitan vibe and whether it feels exciting.
– After buying new clothes, asking if your outfit is “city不city” means asking whether it’s fashionable, stylish, and visually appealing.
– When dining at a beautifully decorated restaurant with delicious food, exclaiming “好city” is a way of complimenting the restaurant’s ambiance, style, and overall experience.
Beyond its association with fashion, modernity, and urban vibes, city has also taken on meanings related to excitement, thrill, or even emotional states:
– Riding a bike in heavy rain? Saying “好city” expresses the thrill of the experience.
– Trying a daring amusement park ride? Saying “这也太city了” emphasizes how thrilling (and maybe terrifying) it is.
– Rushing in a chaotic hurry and feeling utterly stressed? Saying “我不city了” means you’re overwhelmed, tense, and far from feeling good.
A Phrase Without Fixed Meaning
The beauty of “city不city” lies in its flexibility—it doesn’t have a fixed definition. Its meaning changes depending on the context. For instance, someone might use it to express admiration, frustration, or other emotions about a city or situation.
The popularity of this phrase is closely tied to the way young people communicate on social media, using playful and creative expressions to convey their thoughts and feelings.