Sociolinguistic ecology disparities and linguistic landscaping in different urban spaces: the case of Hong Kong

Abstract

This studyconducts fieldwork on the sociolinguistic environments of three areas in Hong Kong: Central, Sai Ying Pun, and Sham Shui Po, and it further demonstrates the validity of frame theory in analysing linguistic landscaping. It shows that the sociolinguistic ecology of different areas in Hong Kong varies greatly, and the visual space level and spoken level are two necessary dimensions for considering the linguistic ecology of a particular area, which are not symmetrical. Meanwhile, the three frames of power, commodification, and creativity highlight the different factors acting on Hong Kong’s multilingual landscaping and reveal the interactions and tensions between normative forces, cultural and economic factors, pluralistic linguistic ideologies, and social actors in different social contexts. In addition, this studyemphasises the dynamic nature of sociolinguistic space, drawing attention to how language and other semiotic resources operate in different urban spaces, and cautioning against simplifying the complex reality of sociolinguistic ecology.

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