Internet buzzwords trigger controversy

Objections voiced after expressions go viral

The phrase tang ping, which translates as "lying flat", went viral on the internet in May, causing heated debate among people of different ages, in various fields of work and across many sectors of society.

The concept of "lying flat" embodies rejection of a life and work culture where there is constant competition.

However, many people object to such a concept, believing it means not having to work hard and struggle for a better life.

Others say the idea places emphasis on rejecting unduly fierce competition at school and work, and stresses that young people are looking for their own ways of career and life development.

The expression tang ping reportedly first appeared on the social media platform Douban, where people form groups according to their interests and share information about films, books, music and other subjects.

Mao Zhicheng, a doctoral student with a major in media studies, applied to the platform on June 30 last year to form a "lying flat" group, describing the concept as "a kind of philosophy".

"We are constantly facing changes. No matter how things change, (people in this group) will keep their hearts calm and prepare to be stricken by life itself," Mao stated in his application.

"We are looking into our hearts, getting used to being alone and choosing not to be controlled by desires, not to dance with the craziness in this world. We are already overloaded by information," he added.

"Lying flat" is seen as the opposite to "996"－working from 9 am to 9 pm for six consecutive days. Such a schedule is often experienced in the technology sector.