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The parallel to "computers" does not fit in this case, because that change came to the entire world at the same time, via the same mechanism: computer -> electronic computer -> computer (when human computers became obsolete). In this case, the existing meaning of "real time" is not obsolete, so the analogy does not work. --- Next, just because language inexorably changes over decades, generations, and centuries, does not mean that a subculture deciding to use an existing word in a different way is "The language changing." It's just a subculture deciding to use a word in a different way. When they go forth and use that word outside of their niche, and there is confusion because they mean one thing and the rest of the world means another, the subculture does not get to shrug and say, "language changes." When you use words, it is your responsibility to know your audience and use the words your audience understands, in the way that they understand it. And so it is with technical terms that have established meanings in the computer science and programming community. By all means redefine what "class" or "type" or "realtime" means. Use your definitions within your subculture with abandon. But be aware that when straying outside of your community, it is your responsibility to use terms that your audience understands, not your audience's responsibility to presume that all bets are off, and any word might mean anything. --- Finally, I question the tone of "sorry." Perhaps you didn't mean it that way, but it has an air of the arrogance of a pop culture programmer. "We're inventing new stuff here, no time for your old ideas, daddy." |