I don't know enough Chinese to comment, but the difference between a sling and slingshot isn't about size or use. The difference between sling and slingshot is what propels the projectile.
A sling extends the length of the user's throwing arm, giving the projectile more power.
A slingshot uses elastic to propel the projectile. Therefore, as elastic didn't exist for most of history, is a modern invention.
Maybe SCMP's error is rooted in Chinese language but I wouldn't be surprised if it wasn't since this is a common error of all English speakers. I'd guess people commonly confuse them in English because of similar names and because both tools have a pouch which holds the projectile.
弹弓 in Chinese, of which the meaning is broad. They don't differentiate by size, especially as nowadays as only the hand/toy variant are actively used.
I don't know enough Chinese to comment, but the difference between a sling and slingshot isn't about size or use. The difference between sling and slingshot is what propels the projectile.
A sling extends the length of the user's throwing arm, giving the projectile more power.
A slingshot uses elastic to propel the projectile. Therefore, as elastic didn't exist for most of history, is a modern invention.
Maybe SCMP's error is rooted in Chinese language but I wouldn't be surprised if it wasn't since this is a common error of all English speakers. I'd guess people commonly confuse them in English because of similar names and because both tools have a pouch which holds the projectile.