Literal translation
involution
When to use it
Used to describe rat-race dynamics in school, work, and society.
Origin
Originally an anthropological term, became a viral critique of modern work/education culture.
Examples
- 太内卷了,大家都没好处。It's too involutive — nobody actually benefits.
Similar slang
躺平 (lie flat — opposite)鸡娃 (chicken kids — pushy parenting)