Showerthoughts

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A "Showerthought" is a simple term used to describe the thoughts that pop into your head while you're doing everyday things like taking a shower, driving, or just daydreaming. A showerthought should offer a unique perspective on an ordinary part of life.

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-33

Why do people say "symbiotic relationship" when they really mean "mutualistic"? (lemmy.world)

submitted 5 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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[–] [email protected] 26 points 5 months ago* (last edited 5 months ago) (1 children)

I was taught that symbiotic relationships are mutually beneficial, and is the opposite of a parasitic relationship where one benefits and the other suffers. I've never heard it used in any other way.

It's also how dictionaries define "symbiotic."

It seems like one of those things that only gets better defined if you're in the field of study, such as a biologist.

[–] [email protected] 7 points 5 months ago

I learned the term “symbiotic” in high school biology and it’s always meant mutually-beneficial.