There's More Than One Way To Do It. This abbreviation of the
official motto of Perl is frequently
used on newsgroups and mailing lists related to that
language.
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to a first approximation adj.
1. [techspeak] When one is doing certain numerical
computations, an approximate solution may be computed by any of
several heuristic methods, then refined to a final value. By
using the starting point of a first approximation of the answer,
one can write an algorithm that converges more quickly to the
correct result. 2. In jargon, a preface to any comment that
indicates that the comment is only approximately true. The remark
"To a first approximation, I feel good" might indicate that
deeper questioning would reveal that not all is perfect (e.g., a
nagging cough still remains after an illness).
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to a zeroth approximation
[from `to a first approximation'] A really sloppy
approximation; a wild guess. Compare social science number.
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toad vt. [MUD]
1. Notionally, to change a MUD
player into a toad. 2. To permanently and totally exile a player
from the MUD. A very serious action, which can only be done by a
MUD wizard; often involves a lot of
debate among the other characters first. See also frog, FOD.