chūquān
Also written: chuquan; break out of the circle; mainstream breakout; cross over
Chinese internet slang for a drama, character, scene, line, costume, song, or story element that spreads beyond its original audience and becomes recognizable to the broader public.
Literal meaning
to leave the circle
Cultural context
Online communities are often described as separate circles. Something goes “out of the circle” when people who were not already following the drama begin quoting, sharing, imitating, or discussing it.
How dramas use it
A memorable scene, character entrance, line of dialogue, costume, soundtrack cue, or plot moment may break into wider public awareness through clips, memes, discussion, or imitation.
Usage & formality
The term describes wider reach, not necessarily quality. A scene may spread because it is excellent, funny, emotional, strange, or unintentionally memorable.