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My impression (as it might be wrong) is that the words "I think" are contextually appropriate depending on what you're trying to accomplish. If you want to voi

by ndl 17y ago

My impression (as it might be wrong) is that the words "I think" are contextually appropriate depending on what you're trying to accomplish. If you want to voice an opinion for consideration but not push for it, then "I think" demonstrates your openness. If you are trying to argue for something directly and expect opposition, then you should state your case as directly and strongly as possible. A third option is when you are expected to be a voice of authority (ie. you're a tech and someone just asked you what Linux is). Authorities are supposed to know, and people will think you're BSing if you say "I think..." what you really know. I personally would prefer you admit if you're unsure, but some people would rather you act confident than disclaim.

ErrantX 17y ago
> A third option is when you are expected to be a voice of authority (ie. you're a tech and someone just asked you what Linux is). Authorities are supposed to know, and people will think you're BSing if you say "I thin In that scenario "I think" is not to do with opinion but uncertainty (it can be used for both). The definition of Linux is an established fact so if you know what it is there is no need for "I think".
- rbanffy 17y ago
  > The definition of Linux is an established fact so if you know what it is there is no need for "I think". So, you agree Linux is just a kernel and the whole operating system should be called GNU/Linux, right?
dkarl 17y ago
I personally would prefer you admit if you're unsure, but some people would rather you act confident than disclaim. For the third scenario, "it appears" can be useful, or if more justification is required, "it appears from the (server's behavior|available data|documentation I can find)." Then when you have to correct yourself later, it wasn't you who was misleading, but the situation. I find that this can be used in a completely honest way and often gives non-techy people a more accurate impression of the situation. It helps them understand both the tentative nature of your diagnosis and the obstacles you're struggling with. Win-win.

by ndl 17y ago

ErrantX 17y ago

> A third option is when you are expected to be a voice of authority (ie. you're a tech and someone just asked you what Linux is). Authorities are supposed to know, and people will think you're BSing if you say "I thin In that scenario "I think" is not to do with opinion but uncertainty (it can be used for both). The definition of Linux is an established fact so if you know what it is there is no need for "I think".

rbanffy 17y ago
> The definition of Linux is an established fact so if you know what it is there is no need for "I think". So, you agree Linux is just a kernel and the whole operating system should be called GNU/Linux, right?

dkarl 17y ago

I personally would prefer you admit if you're unsure, but some people would rather you act confident than disclaim. For the third scenario, "it appears" can be useful, or if more justification is required, "it appears from the (server's behavior|available data|documentation I can find)." Then when you have to correct yourself later, it wasn't you who was misleading, but the situation. I find that this can be used in a completely honest way and often gives non-techy people a more accurate impression of the situation. It helps them understand both the tentative nature of your diagnosis and the obstacles you're struggling with. Win-win.