A Problem Squared

121 = Bi-annuals and Diagonals

9 snips
Nov 10, 2025
What does 'bi-weekly' really mean? The hosts tackle this language conundrum with some quirky alternatives. Ever wondered about the diagonal of a cube? They delve into face and space diagonals and even introduce Euler bricks. The fascinating world of Prince Rupert's cube and the unique shapes called nopets is explored, revealing how researchers find these math gems. Plus, there's a humorous take on combining names into 'Megazord' titles. A playful and enlightening discussion awaits!
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ANECDOTE

Sega Cartridge Slides At A Conference

  • Matt attended Demuxed and saw a presenter run slides from a modified Sega Mega Drive cartridge that streamed video using added chips and clever swapping.
  • The hack used palette changes and memory-swapping to squeeze far more video into tiny cartridge constraints.
ADVICE

Resolve Bi-Word Ambiguity Directly

  • When a word like "bi-weekly" is ambiguous, explicitly state your intended meaning instead of assuming others understand you.
  • Use precise alternatives like "fortnightly" for every-two-weeks or say "twice a week" to avoid confusion.
INSIGHT

Historical Meaning Doesn’t Guarantee Clarity

  • Historical usage shows "bi-weekly" originally meant twice a week, while alternative formations like "biennial" developed to mean every two years.
  • Language evolution leaves overlapping forms, so etymology doesn't guarantee clear modern usage.
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