One of the things that I often remind people is that they need to be precise with their language.

I usually phrase this as “words mean things“

This doesn’t mean that I am always precise of my language. I try to be, but I’m imperfect and so I sometimes mess this up.

Here’s one example

Are use the word pinecones to mean tree cones of any kind.

In fact, when I say pinecones, I am most often mean, spruce cones.

Yesterday, however, when I was picking the cones pictured below up off the ground to use for a craft I realized that these are actually pinecones. The things I pick up in my own yard or when walking around near my home, those are spruce cones.

Words mean things, Christine. Use the one that best fits the situation so other people can understand what you mean.