Sometimes it appears that we are being overly persnickety when we talk about the specific definition of a word–like the difference between diminutives and nicknames or referring to sources as original or derivative and information as primary or secondary. The reason is that understanding terminology helps us to understand materials when we find them, to draw appropriate and reasonable conclusions, and to communicate clearly when we write.
For the record, diminutives are names that are based on a shortened or affectionate form of a name where nicknames are ones based on something else–a physical characteristic, residence, occupation, or the like. Sources are generally original when they are in their first form–otherwise they are said to be secondary. Information is primary when it is provided within a reasonable amount of time after an event by someone who had first hand knowledge of the event. Otherwise, the information is secondary.
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