1. It's inherently hierarchical: It implies that some forms of English are inherently "better" than others, creating a linguistic hierarchy that can be used to marginalize and discriminate against speakers of non-standard dialects.
2. It ignores the diversity of English: English is a global language with numerous dialects and variations. What is considered "substandard" in one region might be the standard in another. Furthermore, language is constantly evolving, and what is considered "standard" today might not have been so in the past, and may change in the future.
3. It focuses on prescriptive rules rather than descriptive analysis: "Substandard English" often focuses on grammatical rules and vocabulary that are considered "incorrect" by prescriptive grammarians. However, this approach ignores the fact that language is a living system with its own internal logic and rules, which may differ from prescriptive norms.
Instead of "substandard English," consider using more neutral and respectful terms like:
* Non-standard English: This acknowledges the existence of different varieties of English without implying inferiority.
* Dialectal variations: This emphasizes the diverse and rich linguistic landscape of English.
* Regional variations: This focuses on the geographic location of different English varieties.
It's crucial to recognize the importance of linguistic diversity and to avoid perpetuating the idea that some forms of English are inherently better than others. Language is a powerful tool for communication and should be celebrated in all its forms.