* Varying levels of proficiency: There are many people who know some English words or phrases, but that doesn't mean they are fluent.
* Regional differences: English proficiency is higher in major cities and areas with more international interaction.
* Lack of official census data: China doesn't conduct regular surveys on English proficiency.
However, here are some estimates and observations:
* The number of Chinese students learning English is high: Millions of Chinese students study English in schools and universities.
* English is widely used in business and tourism: English is essential for many jobs and interactions with foreigners.
* Internet and media exposure: English content is widely available online and in media, leading to increased exposure.
Overall, it's safe to say that millions of people in China speak at least some English, but the actual number of fluent speakers is likely significantly lower.