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Subject:Verb Usage From:John David Hickey <jdavid -at- FARABI -dot- COM> Date:Wed, 9 Dec 1998 15:37:18 -0500
Greetings!
I'm updating a programming guide and I'm having a hard time over a verb that
keeps turning up. Maybe I can get a second opinion...
The GET command returns the value of the variable as a string.
What this command does is it goes to another part of the program, retrieves
the value, and uses it in the current function. I replaced "returns" with
"retrieves", but the reviewer didn't like it.
I'd rather use "retrieves" because it shows how the program goes to a
destination and returns with information. I don't like "returns" because
only indicates the journey back.
Is "returns" an industry standard (check out Dilbert today at
www.dilbert.com for a related funny) in the programming world, or can I push
for the more accurate verb?
Please respond off-list and I'll post a summary of what I get.
--
Be seeing you,
Lone Writer at Farabi Technology Corp. (Montreal, Quebec)
They say the pen is mighter than the sword.
But if you miss a deadline, you'd better bring the sword.
--
Do not confuse my opinons with my employer's.
Each exists in blissful ignorance of the other.
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