Beyond "Standard" and "Substandard":
* Standard English: This refers to the form of English considered "correct" and widely accepted in formal contexts, such as education, government, and professional communication. It's generally based on the language used by educated speakers and writers in major urban centers.
* Non-Standard English: This is a broader term that encompasses all forms of English that don't strictly adhere to the rules of Standard English. This includes regional dialects, social dialects, and even some forms of informal speech used by educated speakers.
Within Non-Standard English:
* Regional Dialects: These are variations of English spoken in specific geographic areas, often with distinctive pronunciations, vocabulary, and grammar. Examples include Southern American English, Appalachian English, and Scottish English.
* Social Dialects: These are variations of English associated with particular social groups, often based on factors like socioeconomic status, ethnicity, or age. For example, African American Vernacular English (AAVE) is a distinct social dialect.
* Informal Speech: Even within Standard English, there are variations in formality. Informal speech is often used in casual settings with friends and family and may include slang, contractions, and grammatical structures not typically used in formal writing.
Important Considerations:
* No "Substandard" Language: It's important to avoid the term "substandard" as it carries a negative connotation and implies that some forms of English are inherently inferior. All varieties of English serve a purpose and are valuable.
* Context and Purpose: The appropriate form of English depends on the context and purpose of communication. What's acceptable in a casual conversation may not be appropriate in a formal presentation.
* Prescriptivism vs. Descriptivism: There's an ongoing debate in linguistics about whether language should be prescribed (dictated) or described (observed). Prescriptivists focus on rules and correctness, while descriptivists acknowledge the diverse and dynamic nature of language.
Conclusion:
English is a complex and diverse language with many variations. Instead of thinking in terms of "standard" and "substandard," it's more helpful to understand the different forms of English and their appropriate uses.