[Tig] semantics: definition vs. resolution

[Jim Houston]

I think the terms come from two different fields.

One is the domain of art where definition has always
been used to mean the clarity of line, texture and form (how clearly is
it delineated against something else).  The perception of
clarity relates to it's definition.  Definition can't be measured.

The other is the domain of science where resolution is the ability
to separate two fine details from each other.   Resolution is an
attribute that can be measured and assigned values based upon
sampling theory (as inexact as the results might sometimes be).


and just to mix things up a little bit...

accutance is the perception of how sharp something is.

Anyone on the list from the OED, give me a call and
i'll straighten you out. :-)

Jim H.
Starwatcher Digital


On May 4, 2007, at 10:52 AM, Alexis Hurkman wrote:

>
> "Resolution - The ability of an optical or video system to reproduce
> fine detail. A measure of the 'sharpness' of a picture. Usually
> measured in pixels in the horizontal direction and lines or pixels
> vertically. Often the horizontal and vertical resolutions are
> different."
>
> "Definition - A description of the sharpness or clarity of a
> television picture. High definition pictures portray a lot of detail,
> while low definition pictures look soft and less clear. See also
> resolution."
>