The concept of image as representation and image as impression in Russian and Chinese languages

The article analyzes the semantic meaning of image as representation and image as impression in Russian and Chinese, and examines the distinction between these concepts and their application in the Russian language. Based on Chinese literary sources, the article also describes the semantic meaning of the Chinese word “Xing Xiang” (形象), which comprises two elements: “internal image”, “external image”. By comparing the concepts mentioned above, the article reveals an unlatching relationship between the concepts and the signs in two different cultures. The conducted analysis promotes a better understanding of the concept of “national image” in Russia and China.