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That "precise meaning" is not universally accepted (or even really all that popular). Paul Graham proposed it once, some people subscribe to that, but it's not
by ryanbrunner 9y ago
That "precise meaning" is not universally accepted (or even really all that popular). Paul Graham proposed it once, some people subscribe to that, but it's not universal, and I'd say YC and the greater VC community have a vested interest in ensuring companies like the one this comment chain is about are not viewed as startups.
- sillysaurus3 9y agoIt's not just quibbling. If you don't use that definition, then the word "startup" loses all meaning. It doesn't matter what other people call themselves. I think companies that don't follow that definition have an agenda: startups are now prestigious, so they call themselves a startup in order to seem impressive.
- wolco 9y agoIf we all accept a definition that becomes the new meaning. It depends on the group listening. Language changes because its based on society at large defining the rules.
- vinceguidry 9y agoYou're just not going to get anywhere trying to argue word definition on the Internet, even (especially) where it matters the most, like where if you're wrong you've done wasted a decade of your life. You're just going to get drowned out by people with way more invested in their failure than you have in your success. Sad, but it's just human nature.