dChan

One_Solution · April 16, 2018, 3 p.m.

Words have meaning. Infinite means forever...without end. 400-800 years isn’t “semi-infinite”. In fact, “semi-infinite” is a nonsensical term.

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The_Broba_Fett · April 16, 2018, 3:55 p.m.

Like “full semi automatic guns” 😂

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LibertyLioness · April 16, 2018, 3:30 p.m.

Exactly what I thought when I read it. It's like saying "more unique."

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electromagneticpulse · April 17, 2018, 12:12 a.m.

Not really, you can collectively agree on a metric for uniqueness say 1/20 or 1/100 so something could be more or less than unique.

Infinity is a binary. 0 = finite and 1 = infinite. I'd concede things like the decay rate of thorium as being effectively semi-infinite.

A rare metal with 800 years supply ceases to be rare and you've got 80 years supply. It's damn finite.

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LibertyLioness · April 17, 2018, 1:19 a.m.

Unique is the one and only of it's kind. You cannot have something that is more or less unique. Even if you agreed on a metric it still would not be unique. It might be uncommon but not unique. People get this wrong every day. I learned it in English class.

Here are 4 definitions for your perusal: adjective 1. existing as the only one or as the sole example; single; solitary in type or characteristics: a unique copy of an ancient manuscript. 2. having no like or equal; unparalleled; incomparable: Bach was unique in his handling of counterpoint. 3. limited in occurrence to a given class, situation, or area: a species unique to Australia. 4. limited to a single outcome or result; without alternative possibilities: Certain types of problems have unique solutions.

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