Fluid's definitions

Catch 22

Also known as a vicious cycle - two or more conditions require the other conditions to be fulfilled, but these other conditions also require the original condition to be fulfilled. In simple terms, this means neither can get fulfilled without the other. A needs B needs A.

So I need a key to open this door, and the key is beyond that same door? Damn, this is one big Catch 22.

by Fluid August 27, 2003

hubris

Advanced arrogance, thinking you're way more important than you really are and are really presumptious. Closely related to megalomania.

It's about time the RIAA is smitten by some deity for hubris and stop thinking they are the law.

by Fluid July 16, 2003

fud

Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt. Also known as scare tactics, either accomplished by threat or making the opponent doubt his standpoint. Not only used in lawsuits, but also in politics and military propaganda.

The company's FUD spreading caused many supporters to abandon their cause, except for the few that could see through its scaremongering propaganda.

by Fluid July 14, 2003

phlogiston

A widely-researched phenomenon in the Middle Ages, phlogiston was thought to be an inherent substance in all things that could burn. When something was burned, phlogiston was visible in the form of flame, and was released into the air. In turn, people thought something would not burn without air because the air was already "full of phlogiston" and no more could be released into the air. In short, phlogiston was believed to be the substance that fire was made of.

These days, under influence of modern science, the concept of phlogiston is usually regarded as superstition.

by Fluid March 30, 2004

WHQL

Windows Hardware Quality Labs, Microsoft's division where they test software (often drivers) on various hardware to see if it works properly.

I'm not downloading those drivers, I'll wait for the WHQL certified version in case they screw up.

by Fluid August 16, 2003

paranoid

An illogical fear or suspicion of people, companies or organizations being consciously against you, and the belief that they are constantly trying to "get" you.

"See those people talking over there? There's no other way than that they're spreading rumors about me."

"Oh stop being paranoid, they're just talking."

by Fluid March 7, 2004

\o/

A smiley of a cheering guy throwing his hands in the air, expressing great happiness. In a rare case, it can portray someone throwing his hands in the air in exasperation or panic.

1. YES! My new computer has arrived! \o/

2. Dammit, I have loads of work to do and tomorrow's the deadline! \o/

by Fluid August 26, 2003