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Errors with acronyms really bug me!

by Ron Kerr
3 replies
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How often have you heard the following:

PIN number - PIN stand for personal identification number and so the word number is redundant

ATM machine - as above the M stand for machine!

I could go on, but I believe it shows that many people don't understand what the acronyms stand for.

Some years ago, Australia introduced a Goods and Services Tax, commonly known as GST. I changed accounting computer programs I had written and was confronted by clients who wanted the words "GST Tax" to appear on their invoices. When I explained that they wanted to inform their customers that they were adding the "Goods and Services Tax Tax" they were usually embarassed and agreed that "GST" was sufficient.

I know that there are many more important issues in the world, but we should know what the acronyms we use stand for.

BTW (yes, an acronym), an acronym is described here if you don't know what I am talking about.
  • Profile picture of the author Michael Motley
    But wouldnt they still be right in a sentence?
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    • Profile picture of the author Ron Kerr
      No, since ATM Machine meaning "Automatic Teller Machine Machine" does not make sense. It only makes sense to those who don't understand what the acronym means.

      And yes, I am grumpy. We are experiencing the first official heat wave in November since records started in the 19th century (Adelaide, South Australia was settled by Europeans in 1836). It is around 2:45 am on Friday morning and I can't sleep.

      My German Shepherd (my avatar) does not know what hit her. We have the air-conditioner on inside during the day (I work from home) and we have a routine where she comes and tells me when she needs to go outside, for obvious reasons.

      We go out and after are few minutes she stands at the door with a look that says "are you nuts?"
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      Ron
      The Gadget News

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  • Profile picture of the author Patrician
    What the Vet told me for my bunny (they die in masses at 100 degree Farenheit) is to get a 1/2 gallon plastic water bottle. Fill it with water and freeze it. Then let them sit with that to cool off.

    (my bunny would go out of his way to ignore it, but maybe the dog is smarter)...

    I love acronyms but only if you know WTH they mean, IYKWIM.

    I always used to start one on all my technical jobs in banking and the last one quickly grew to 4 printed pages by the time I finished training. Started one for the internet a few years ago and still growing. Instead of feeling or sounding stupid, or worse missing the point, just pull out the handy list.
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    Patricia Brucoli
    Plug-In Profit Site Helpdesk

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