ENGLISH AND CHINESE IN THE LINGUISTIC LANDSCAPE OF NANJING, CHINA

Abstract

This study examines the coexistence of English and Chinese languages in public signage across Nanjing, China, through the lens of linguistic landscape studies. As one of China's ancient capitals and a rapidly globalising metropolis, Nanjing provides a unique setting where historical heritage intersects with increasing internationalisation and multilingual communication. Public signs serve not only as practical tools for conveying information but also as visible markers of cultural identity, language policy, and socio-economic development. Adopting a qualitative research approach, this study analyses bilingual public signs collected from selected tourist attractions, transportation hubs, commercial districts, educational institutions, and public facilities throughout the city. The analysis focuses on three key dimensions: the visibility and prominence of English and Chinese, the communicative functions performed by bilingual signage, and the linguistic accuracy and appropriateness of English translations. The findings indicate that Chinese remains the dominant language across public spaces, while English is predominantly used as a supplementary language to facilitate communication with international visitors and expatriates. Beyond its informational role, English also performs symbolic functions by projecting modernity, global connectivity, and an internationally welcoming city image. Nevertheless, the analysis identifies several inconsistencies in English translations, including grammatical inaccuracies, lexical choices, and awkward phrasing, which may affect communication effectiveness and international perceptions. These findings suggest that bilingual signage reflects not only practical communication needs but also broader socio-cultural and economic aspirations associated with globalisation. Overall, the linguistic landscape of Nanjing illustrates China's evolving linguistic identity, balancing the preservation of its rich cultural heritage with the demands of international engagement. The study contributes to the growing body of research on linguistic landscapes by providing insights into bilingual public signage in contemporary urban China and highlighting the relationship between language, identity, and globalisation.