I think some people use the term "friend" a lot more casually than you do. The dictionary's first definition is "a person attached to another by feelings of affection or personal regard," which IMO doesn't say much. Heck, I have feelings of personal regard for you, but I would never impose on you to the extent of calling you my friend. <g>
the second definition, starts by going further, "a person who gives assistance," but then it ruins that by giving the example "a Friend of the Boston Symphony." Mere giving of a few dollars makes friendship?
The third definition is simply "a person who is on good terms with another; a person who is not hostile." Pretty minimal there. By that definition, I have lots of on-line friends. But I agree with you, I don't consider them friends in any true sense of the word.
So while I prefer your concept of friendship, I think those who aim for a much lower standard, and the dictionary, at least, supports them, not you.
Which just shows what dictionaries know about language. <g> |
