Literal translation
lie flat
When to use it
Describing a deliberate choice to stop overworking. Often self-deprecating; can sound resigned rather than proud.
Origin
Viral in 2021 after a forum post praised a low-desire lifestyle; became a generational attitude slogan among young Chinese.
Examples
- 加班没尽头,我选择躺平。Overtime never ends — I choose to lie flat.
Similar slang
内卷 (involution — opposite)摆烂 (let it rot — more extreme)