Momentary Knock-out

Almost every profession, introduces a new set of terminologies and phrases into the English language. The software profession is no exception. So while it has definitely contributed a host of new terms, it has also widely redefined the connotation associated with English words like 'compile', 'build' and 'link'.

I remember how Computer Science students of a local engineering college had used this redefinition to conjure a catch-phrase for their T-shirt. The T-shirt proudly announced: We compile the past, link to the present and build the future !

This redefinition may seem innocuous in professional life, but let me warn you of the potential embarrassment it can cause if used in the context of day-to-day life in the presence of non-techie people.

Let me take a case in point. Yesterday I met a friend and casually enquired about one more friend who had recently been admitted into a hospital on account of viral fever. I asked him a simple question - So when is he going to be released ?

The last word of my question caused a momentary knock-out, something very similar to what the hero of the Tata Indica ad experiences each time he tells a lie with confidence ! Are you still puzzled - then you might be one of my techie brethren. Read on to find out the reason for my knock-out !

Release - is a word that software engineers use with alarming frequency. Sometimes it motivates them and sometimes it scares them. This time it scared me out of context and got images of my English teacher in front of me. Chetan - you are using the wrong word ! For God's sake, he is not in prison. He is in a hospital and people get discharged from a hospital and not released !

My friend probably sensed my goof-up and answered with a smile - he will get discharged tomorrow.