[anonimo]

> Given that language is defined by usage

What?! This is not natural language. It's a mathematical symbol with a well-known meaning.

One might argue that a lot of programmers don't need to worry about algorithmic complexity on a daily basis. But anyone who wants to talk about it should get the basics right.

[sanderjd]

Arguing that language of any sort (including the mathematical sort) is not malleable depending on the context of its use is completely futile. This is a perfect example of the more common usage and the more correct usage of a "mathematical symbol with a well-known meaning" being totally at odds with one another.

When confronted with someone using different definitions for their language usage than those you are using you can either argue with them about what the correct usage is or allow that language is not absolute and cooperate to calibrate your terms so that you can understand one another. It seems that btilly has decided to do the latter in this specific case, which is laudable.