Across the pond, brits constantly complain about how 'incorrect' American English is. I think this is elitist, and it is silly to call a dialect of a language incorrect. (Webster wrote his dictionary to simplify English, not make it correct) What do you think?
I think both of them are fine, but they seem to think of each other as the rather well meaning, but incorrect alternative. To me, they are just different styles and cultures, and that's about it.
What about Canadian english?
We're a mix of some American, British and unique dialects. And although you'd think Canadian English would be assimilated, it is apparently actually becoming more distinct. As for specific spellings, I say colour, neighbour, etc...
As for the elitist thing, I've seen Americans say the same thing about British and Canadian spellings (that we spell things wrong), so it all depends which side you're on.
Heh, yeah, though I do respect the fact that our dialects are different
(And yes, Canadian English exists
)
American English isn't incorrect because it's a new dialect. Let me give an example.
In England, "schedule" is pronounced as "shedyule." In America, it's "skedchyule." Shedyule is by far the more proper pronunciation given the spelling of schedule.
Generally I prefer British English though. But while American English may not be entirely "correct", it's still not awful. English in general is outdated and needs an update, I think. Silent vowels and "debt" and "doubt is why. Why the latins had to latinize dett and dowt, who knows..
I've lived in quite a few places, so Canadian English really doesn't sound any different to me, personally.
You don't notice it right away, until we use certain words. Some words that are uniquely Canadian or originated in Canada include tuque, poutine (no surprise there) - others include toboggan and eavestrough. Some of these words I didn't even realize were of Canadian origin.