* Dialects are a spectrum, not distinct categories: There's no clear line between a dialect and a separate language. It's a matter of degree of difference in pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary.
* Dialects are constantly evolving: Language is dynamic and changes over time and space. New dialects emerge, existing ones blend, and boundaries become blurred.
* The definition of "dialect" is subjective: Some people might consider regional accents to be dialects, while others might only consider significant linguistic differences as dialects.
Therefore, any number you find will be arbitrary and based on a specific set of criteria.
However, linguists generally agree that there are hundreds of different dialects of English spoken worldwide.
Here are some factors that contribute to the diversity of English dialects:
* Geographical location: Different regions have developed unique features in their spoken English, like the famous differences between American and British English.
* Social factors: Socioeconomic status, ethnicity, and age can all influence language variations.
* Historical influences: Contact with other languages and historical events have shaped the development of various dialects.
Rather than focusing on a specific number, it's more important to appreciate the rich linguistic diversity of the English language and its fascinating variations across the world.