Bibliometric Mapping of ChatGPT Use in Language Education: Evolution, Trends, and Future Directions

Generative AI and tools like ChatGPT have transformed many fields, including language education. Despite growing research productivity and various systematic reviews, a comprehensive bibliometric study of ChatGPT's use in language education—especially within the Web of Science (WoS)—remains lacking. Combining content analysis and systematic review methods, this study takes a bibliometric approach to examine research and publication trends in ChatGPT-related language learning and teaching studies. Analysis of 222 WoS-indexed articles showed exponential yearly growth (117.7%), promising international cooperation (18.92%), and rising multiple authorship (71.62%). Content analysis of article titles revealed a primary focus on writing skills, with secondary attention to general language benefits, critical thinking/analysis, research and citation, and creativity and style. Using Biblioshiny and VOSviewer, the study identified the most productive and influential sources, affiliations, authors, countries, and papers. Based on these findings, it recommends five future directions: expanding research scope, broadening geographic diversity, addressing raised concerns, examining environmental impact, and studying teacher training. Overall, the study advances understanding of how ChatGPT can best be utilised for language education.