In today’s post, we’ll be looking at the language that is generally used in the Bitcoin community and the perceptions of those peeking into our world from the outside.
Block time 817779—a number that might not mean much to you now, but by the end of our chat, you’ll see it as a timestamp of our ongoing Bitcoin adventure. And while the Moscow time of 26:85 may seem like a glitch in the matrix, it’s just our playful way of saying that in the Bitcoin universe, we operate on our own schedule.
Some Terminology
Now, let’s talk terminology. In the Bitcoin landscape, we’ve seen words like “toxicity” thrown around. Yes, we Bitcoiners can be passionate, fiercely defending our digital gold. But sometimes, this passion can come off as, well, toxic. It’s a double-edged sword—on one hand, it shows our unwavering belief in Bitcoin; on the other, it can push curious minds away.
Consider the term “shitcoin,” a label often slapped on anything that’s not Bitcoin. If we call someone’s favorite altcoin a “shitcoin,” we risk closing the door on a potential Bitcoin convert. They might feel attacked, and who can blame them? It’s not the warmest welcome to our community.
But what if we toned it down a notch? Instead of dismissing other projects outright, we could say, “We prefer Bitcoin because…” This way, we’re sharing our perspective without alienating anyone. After all, if someone’s emotionally and financially invested in another coin, calling it a “shitcoin” might just make them tune out.
The level of “toxicity” in Bitcoin conversations varies. For some, a little tough love might spark a revelation. For others, a gentler approach is needed. It’s all about striking that delicate balance in our communication.
When you’re chatting about Bitcoin, you might bump into terms like “no-coiner,” “pre-coiner,” or the infamous “shitcoiner.” But what if we used “altcoin enthusiast” instead? It’s friendlier and more inclusive, inviting more people to join the dialogue. It’s not about proving a point; it’s about helping others understand and appreciate Bitcoin.
Take the word “taxes“—some Bitcoiners call them “theft” or “hidden taxes.” Strong words, indeed, and they can turn people off before they even consider your viewpoint. We need to be mindful of how we present our ideas to keep the conversation open and flowing.
Some Bitcoin Jargon
Bitcoin jargon can be quite specific. “Self-custody” and “non-custodial” both refer to holding your own private keys—a concept that even seasoned Bitcoiners sometimes debate. And let’s not forget the distinction between Bitcoin with a capital “B” (the network) and bitcoin with a lowercase “b” (the currency). It’s a small detail, but it matters in our discussions.
Then there’s the term “unhosted wallet,” which sounds a bit ominous, doesn’t it? It’s just a wallet where you control your private keys, as opposed to a “hosted wallet,” where a third party does. The language we use can shape perceptions, and we want to ensure it reflects the self-sovereignty that Bitcoin offers.
Understanding the language of Bitcoin is crucial for engaging effectively with both the community and the public. It’s about clarifying and demystifying the terms, making the Bitcoin universe more accessible to newcomers. So, whether you’re a seasoned HODLer or just Bitcoin-curious, we’re here to help you navigate the crypto seas.
As is in life in general, the words we choose can build bridges or walls. Let’s aim for the former and welcome everyone to the conversation. Until next time, keep stacking sats and speaking the language of freedom and innovation.