RedNote has its own language. Before you can truly understand what's happening on the platform — why certain posts go viral, how users talk about products, what makes content trustworthy — you need to know the vocabulary. Here are the essential terms every newcomer should learn.
To plant grass — to inspire someone to want/buy something. The core action of RedNote culture.
“This post totally 种草'd me on that skincare brand.”
To pull grass — to lose interest in something you previously wanted, often after a bad review.
“One honest review and I was completely 拔草'd.”
Note — the standard term for a post on RedNote. Every post is a 笔记.
“She posts three 笔记 a week about her morning routine.”
Key Opinion Consumer — a regular user with genuine influence through authentic reviews, not paid promotions.
“KOCs drive more trust than traditional influencers on this platform.”
Key Opinion Leader — a larger influencer or celebrity with significant reach and brand partnerships.
“The brand partnered with a KOL for the product launch.”
Viral hit — a product, post, or trend that blows up and becomes extremely popular.
“That lip tint became an 爆款 overnight.”
Ordinary person — a non-celebrity, everyday user. Often used to describe authentic, relatable content creators.
“素人 reviews are often more trusted than celebrity endorsements.”
Check-in — visiting a trending spot or completing a challenge and posting about it.
“Everyone is 打卡-ing that new café in Shanghai.”
Good stuff — a term used to recommend products. 好物分享 means sharing good finds.
“Her 好物 posts always sell out the products she mentions.”
Lightning avoidance — a warning post telling others to avoid a bad product or experience.
“She posted a 避雷 about that overpriced restaurant.”