this post was submitted on 25 Oct 2024
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Common misuse of words. Decimate means reduce by 1/10 not almost completely destroy. Exponential growth. The variable has to be in the exponent if it's a constant exponent that is polynomial growth. Gaslighting isn't just lying. It's making someone belive that they can't trust their own memories or experiences so they believe you despite evidence to the contrary.
Using "decimate" to mean "completely destroy" is not a misuse of the word. The word's meaning has simply changed.
exactly. plus it makes sense, there's no reason why decimate can't mean reduce to one tenth.
It's right there in the word. deci 1/10 mate from matus to remove. It's like expecting half price to mean 1/3 price. We use deci all the time to mean 1/10 Decileter, decimal, etc.
maybe you misread my comment. I already said 1/10.
When I read it, I agree with you - but when I say decimate, it sure sounds like it should mean near total destruction.