Re: Terminology: "exit" versus "quit"

[Shaun McCance <shaunm gnome org>]

On Tue, 2008-07-01 at 15:08 +0100, Calum Benson wrote:
> On 1 Jul 2008, at 03:22, Leonardo F. Fontenelle wrote:
> 
> > Is there any difference between "exit" and "quit" in GNOME  
> > terminology?
> >
> > Currently in Brazil we are translating both "exit" and "quit" as the
> > same "sair". I just wanted to be sure we're doing the right thing.
> 
> If you mean in GUI labels, applications shouldn't be using "Exit",  
> only "Quit".  So please file bugs against applications that are using  
> "Exit" :)
> 
> If you mean in user documentation, the GDSG currently suggests a  
> slight difference, although I'm not sure it's not one I agree with:
> 
> exit
> Definition: To stop an application from running. Exit implies normal  
> cessation of application activity.
> Usage: Normal text rules.
> Tags: Prose tag rules.
> Example: If you close the last window, the application exits.
> Note: See also quit.
> 
> quit
> Definition: To abruptly stop an application, without necessarily  
> completing current tasks. Quit implies a sudden or unexpected  
> cessation of activity.
> Usage: Normal text rules.
> Tags: Prose tag rules.
> Example: To quit the application without saving your current project,  
> select Ctrl+Q.
> Note: See also exit.

I think that distinction is pretty obtuse, and people
won't bother trying to wrap their brains around it to
follow it.  If I get the terminology revamp restarted,
I'll recommend axing this recommendation.

--
Shaun