Names of Chinese Skyscrapers

Abstract

This study examines 89 presentation names of skyscrapers in mainland China and shows how skyscraper names collectively relate to the region’s economic status. Here, I extend Edward Callary definition of presentation name to include also institutional buildings and consider the presentation names of skyscrapers as the English names by which the skyscrapers are known to the international public. More than simple references to supertall structures, these names help to assist with the mission of portraying an image of national growth and progress. The study also notes how the names of skyscrapers in a non-Western country pattern differently from those of US skyscrapers.

Keywords:

• skyscraper names
• mainland China
• presentation names
• onomastics

Acknowledgements

The writer appreciates the suggestions of two anonymous reviewers for Names.