When combined, 拉黑 (lā hēi) vividly means “to pull [someone] into the black.” This is a direct reference to the English loan-concept of a “blacklist” (黑名单, hēimíngdān), a list of people who are to be excluded or blocked.
In modern China, where super-apps like WeChat (微信) are central to nearly all social and professional communication, being “lā hēi'd” carries significant weight. It's not just a minor inconvenience; it can be a powerful statement of social rejection. Compared to the Western concept of “blocking,” the action is technically identical, but the cultural impact can be more profound. In the West, if someone blocks you on Instagram, you might still reach them via text, email, or Facebook. In China, WeChat is often the primary, if not sole, channel for communication with friends, family, and colleagues. Being blocked on WeChat can feel like being completely cut off from a person's life. Therefore, to “lā hēi” someone is a very deliberate and often final-seeming gesture. It implies a serious disagreement, annoyance, or the desire to end a relationship, whether personal or professional. Discovering you've been blocked by a friend without warning is a common source of social drama and hurt feelings.
“Lā hēi” is an informal, colloquial term used constantly in daily digital life.
The most common point of confusion for learners is the difference between 拉黑 (lā hēi) and 删除 (shānchú).
Common Mistake: Using “删除” (delete) when you mean “拉黑” (block). If you tell a Chinese friend “我删除了他 (Wǒ shānchú le tā)” meaning “I blocked him,” they will understand it as the less severe action. If you want to convey the finality and frustration, “拉黑” is the correct and more impactful word.