In article <[log in to unmask]>, Tony Furnivall
<[log in to unmask]> writes

>The English expression is "The exception proves the rule". Howver, this does
>not mean that the exception "demonstrates the correctness of" the rule, but
>rather that the exception "challenges the validity of" the rule. So, it is
>perfectly possible to have an exception which does not accord with the rule,
>but which nonetheless causes everyone on the list to expend sufficient
>mental effort to demonstrate the validity and usefulness of the rule. Sort
>of like testing a piece of software.....:-)
>Tony

Yes, like NASA's Proving Grounds, which is their testing area.....

There's another 'proof' saying which gets misunderstood. But because it
doesn't look paradoxical, few people notice.

So, 'the proof of the pudding is in the eating' refers to the ultimate
test of the pudding's goodness, as compared to say, just looking at it,
or even smelling it. It doesn't mean that its very existence is in doubt
until it is eaten.

Funny language, English. If I say 'I'm mad about my flat' (UK), I mean
that I am enthusiastic about my apartment. If you say it (US), you mean
that you are angry about your punctured tire :-)
--
Roy Brown               Phone : (01684) 291710     Fax : (01684) 291712
Affirm Ltd              Email : [log in to unmask]
The Great Barn, Mill St 'Have nothing on your systems that you do not
TEWKESBURY GL20 5SB (UK) know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.'