Norwegian 12-year-olds: British English is 'cringe'

Twelve-year-olds in Norway have deemed British English "cringe" when it's pronounced with an American accent. Synne, Maksymilian and Rania, friends who frequently converse in English, share that American English is what they hear most often and feel most comfortable with. British English, while still seen as prestigious, is perceived as affected or used in a playful manner.

The friends also enjoy imitating accents from different regions, like Texas and Australia. An associate professor at the University of Oslo, Ulrikke Rindal, explains that American English is the neutral default for young people due to frequent exposure through media. British English, though retaining some prestige, is often seen as affected or used playfully.