Exploring the Applicability of the Push-Pull Theory to Understand the Spread of the Chinese Language

Abstract

This article discusses the application of the push-pull theory from migration studies to explain the global spread of the Chinese language. Employing a qualitative analytical research method, we first identify the push and pull factors related to the language spread and analyze how these factors influence the transition from language users’ communicative demands to real language practice. We then summarize the elements that affect the push-pull relationship and reveal how the push-pull factors affect the macro, meso, and micro levels of language spread. Finally, this paper highlights policy implications for optimizing language spread and puts forward suggestions that promote the balance of the push-pull relationship. We believe that the application of the push-pull theory has helped illuminate the intricacies of language spread and serves as a theoretical foundation for future empirical research on language spread.