2 ms·
demean: cause a severe loss in the dignity of and respect for (someone or something). Is it really that bad? It's plausible, but I'm skeptical. Regardless, i
by mistermann 5y ago
demean: cause a severe loss in the dignity of and respect for (someone or something).
Is it really that bad? It's plausible, but I'm skeptical.
Regardless, it is surely suboptimal. I wonder if there are more optimal approaches than "if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all" (my Mom's advice)....can you think of any?
- Shared404 5y ago> Is it really that bad? It's plausible, but I'm skeptical. Demean was too strong a word, I need to follow my own advice better :). > Regardless, it is surely suboptimal. I wonder if there are more optimal approaches than "if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all" (my Mom's advice)....can you think of any? The three gates[0] are what I try (and admittedly fail miserably) to implement, though not in their original form. I generally try for "Is it true", "Is it useful", "Is it kind" - in that order of precedence if they can not all be met. [0] Is it true, is it necessary, is it kind.
- mistermann 5y agoI like it. I would evaluate it thusly: a) Is it true? I would say: overwhelmingly. b) Is it necessary? In an absolute sense: no. In a relative sense (say, if one has a specific goal in mind): Certainly maybe, but I would predict: Extremely Likely. > Is it kind. I suspect not. But then, I think HN'ers can have thick skin when required (say, if you are trying to optimize The System that we all live within).