I used the terms "argument" and "parameter" interchangeably when it comes to discussing most programming language (two main ones being C and perl). I tend to use the term "argument(s)" or "function declaration argument(s)" when referring to function definitions, and "calling argument(s)" when talking about arguments passed to a function when that function is used. When it comes to
argv[] I just call it "argv" or "command-line arguments".
The way I solve any ambiguity is to simply explain what it is I'm referring to; providing proper context goes a long way, especially if there's a (ethnic/racial/cultural) language barrier involved.
Anyone splitting hairs over such semantics, to the point of it become a conversation topic/debate/argument needs to get some medication for whatever brain damage it is they have. Yep, I really do feel that way about it.
But likewise, if you're listening to someone explain something and you're not sure which of the above they're talking about:
ask them. This has the additional benefit of showing the speaker that you're paying attention *and* that you want them to explain what they're doing; like I pointed out in another thread recently, if the programmer doesn't actually understand the code it is they're writing, then what the fuck good is it?
I've begun to see a common trend in the past 6-7 years in mainly younger programmers who like to try and flex their proverbial balls in the above manner. No Dwedit I'm not saying you're one -- I'm talking about folks who absolutely insist on calling things X and Y and Z and any other terminology;
even if they understand based on context what it is you're saying you're still told "stop calling them that, they're X/Y/Z" (probably a form of Asperger's syndrome). I tend to see this in Ruby and Python jackasses the most, followed equally by CS graduates who sound like they jacked off to a textbook for the past 4 years.
I can relate it to perl asshats who get bent when you refer to an "array" as a "list" (
yes there is a difference -- the latter is just a term to define "a reference to an array" -- but it doesn't fucking matter if the person you're speaking to/with has provided context).
I want to pound these people into the pavement. Repeatedly.