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> Dropbox snares HelloSign (YC W11) for $230 The title appears to have a negative slant. Is the modern jargon for acquisitions of this nature?

bertil 8y ago
I’m not sure but most people around me speak negatively about Dropbox in terms of security. The most common expression is: “Things on Dropbox are to be considered public.” My assumption is that anyone can achieve reasonable security of they care enough about it, therefore I would blame Dropbox management for their priorities there. Given the business of HelloSign, that feels like a possibly dangerous combination. However, I agree with you: “offers to buy” would be more neutral and feel more appropriate. “Snares” has other nuances (surprise, violence, asymmetry) but neither convey a discussed at length, mutually agreed and beneficial relationship.
azhenley 8y ago
I don’t think it is meant to be negative. I think “snares” could be positive or negative. I interpreted it as Dropbox was fortunate to acquire HelloSign. Also, this may just be some creative writing. Dropbox’s announcement did not use such language.
- chrisseaton 8y ago
  > I think “snares” could be positive or negative. You know a snare is a hidden trap for animals? I can't imagine being snared to be positive - it implies you're going to be skinned or eaten.
  - okmokmz 8y ago
    I've certainly heard snared used positively. As in, one has snared something that is beneficial to them and difficult to catch
  - azhenley 8y ago
    People often say “he/she is a good catch.” Sure, the term probably comes from hunting but I have always considered it to be a compliment. Not the term I would use in a business context though.
  - DenverCoder009 8y ago
    It also implies you've caught something of value. And get to have stew.
lifeisstillgood 8y ago
I read it as "gets the prize despite competition" as in Cinderella snares Prince Charming despite heavy competion from Snow White and the ugly sisters

bertil 8y ago

I’m not sure but most people around me speak negatively about Dropbox in terms of security. The most common expression is: “Things on Dropbox are to be considered public.” My assumption is that anyone can achieve reasonable security of they care enough about it, therefore I would blame Dropbox management for their priorities there. Given the business of HelloSign, that feels like a possibly dangerous combination. However, I agree with you: “offers to buy” would be more neutral and feel more appropriate. “Snares” has other nuances (surprise, violence, asymmetry) but neither convey a discussed at length, mutually agreed and beneficial relationship.

azhenley 8y ago

I don’t think it is meant to be negative. I think “snares” could be positive or negative. I interpreted it as Dropbox was fortunate to acquire HelloSign. Also, this may just be some creative writing. Dropbox’s announcement did not use such language.

chrisseaton 8y ago
> I think “snares” could be positive or negative. You know a snare is a hidden trap for animals? I can't imagine being snared to be positive - it implies you're going to be skinned or eaten.
- okmokmz 8y ago
  I've certainly heard snared used positively. As in, one has snared something that is beneficial to them and difficult to catch
- azhenley 8y ago
  People often say “he/she is a good catch.” Sure, the term probably comes from hunting but I have always considered it to be a compliment. Not the term I would use in a business context though.
- DenverCoder009 8y ago
  It also implies you've caught something of value. And get to have stew.

lifeisstillgood 8y ago

I read it as "gets the prize despite competition" as in Cinderella snares Prince Charming despite heavy competion from Snow White and the ugly sisters