I *think* you perhaps might be using a slightly too advanced language for comicdave to understand.

Perhaps, but I'm caught between trying to explain complicated topics to him in his terms (perhaps inaccurately as a result) and raising his level of understanding to that which is appropriate to the topic. I would prefer to do the latter, if possible.

I hope it's clear that obfuscation is not my goal. I've always been used to the concept that correct use of precise terminology is what separates the novice from the expert.

Your point is well taken. I would prefer to use precise terms, but that obviously presumes that everyone understands those terms. Otherwise I'm just wasting my time.