.. (Dot Dot) In the realm of computing, ‘..’ (dot dot), known as the ellipsis character, holds a special significance. It serves various purposes across different domains and contexts: 1. Directory Traversal: In file systems and command line interfaces, ‘..’ represents the directory one level above the current directory. When used in a path, it allows for navigation to the parent directory. For example, in UNIX-based systems, the command “cd ..” moves the current directory to its parent directory. 2. Range Specification: In programming languages, ‘..’ is commonly used to specify a range of values. It is typically used in conjunction with loops or array slicing to iterate over a specific subset of elements. For instance, in Python, the syntax “range(start, stop, step)” can be used to generate a range of numbers starting from ‘start’ and ending before ‘stop’, with an optional step size. 3. Placeholder and Ellipsis: In natural language processing (NLP) and text formatting, ‘..’ is sometimes used as a placeholder or ellipsis to indicate missing or omitted information. It suggests that there is more to follow, or that the current text has been truncated. In web development, it can be used in HTML elements, such as and , to create ellipsis effects when text overflows the element’s boundaries. 4. Wildcards and Matching: In shell commands and regular expressions, ‘..’ often serves as a wildcard that matches any character or sequence. It allows for flexible matching patterns to find or replace specific strings. For example, the regular expression “/usr/bin/..” would match any file or directory that begins with “/usr/bin/”. 5. File Renaming and Extensions: In file systems, ‘..’ is sometimes used in conjunction with file renaming operations. For instance, in Windows, using the command “ren example.txt ..new_folder” would move the file “example.txt” to the parent directory and rename it to “new_folder”. 6. Variable Argument Lists: In some programming languages, such as C and C++, the ‘…’ syntax is used to indicate a variable argument list. This allows functions to accept a variable number of arguments, without the need to explicitly specify their types or的数量. Overall, ‘..’ is a versatile character that plays a vital role in various facets of computing. It enables efficient directory traversal, range specification, and text formatting, while also providing flexibility in wildcard matching and variable argument lists.Ellipsis: The Art of Leaving Things Unfinished
Ellipsis: The Art of Leaving Things Unfinished In the realm of language, there exists a powerful rhetorical device that allows writers and speakers to hint at unspoken words or thoughts. This enigmatic symbol, known as the ellipsis (… ), is a series of three consecutive dots that signifies an intentional omission. Origins and Purpose: The ellipsis originated in ancient Greek, where it was used to indicate that a passage had been cut short or that there was a pause in speech. Over time, it has evolved into a versatile tool employed in various written and spoken contexts. Ellipsis serves several purposes: * To indicate a pause or hesitation: It creates a sense of suspense or anticipation by leaving the reader or listener anticipating what will come next. * To convey unspoken thoughts or emotions: It allows the writer to suggest something without explicitly stating it, leaving room for interpretation and inference. * To create an air of mystery or intrigue: By omitting certain words, ellipsis can lead readers or listeners to ponder and fill in the blanks, enhancing the narrative’s depth and complexity. Forms and Conventions: The ellipsis typically consists of three dots. When used at the end of a sentence, it is followed by a period (e.g., “I wonder…”). However, when used within a sentence, it is not preceded by any punctuation (e.g., “He hesitated… and then spoke”). In academic writing, ellipses are often used to denote omissions in quoted material. In this case, they are placed within square brackets (e.g., “Thomas Hobbes states that ‘the life of man is solitary… nasty, brutish, and short'”). Effective Use: Ellipsis can be a powerful tool when used sparingly and appropriately. It should not be overused or become a crutch for poor writing. When employed effectively, it can: * Enhance suspense and anticipation * Reveal character thoughts and emotions * Create a sense of mystery and intrigue * Condense information without losing meaning Examples of Ellipsis: * “I love you… but I don’t know if I can be with you.” * “They stared at each other… the tension in the air palpable.” * “The world is a book… and those who do not travel read only one page.” * “I’m lost… alone… afraid…” * “To be or not to be… that is the question.” Conclusion: The ellipsis is a versatile rhetorical device that allows writers and speakers to convey unspoken words or thoughts. By creating a sense of pause, hinting at unspoken emotions, and leaving room for interpretation, it adds depth and complexity to both written and spoken communication. When used effectively, ellipsis can captivate audiences, engage their imaginations, and leave them pondering the unspoken.
NCERT to Remove Gender Bias from School Textbooks The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has embarked on a mission to eliminate gender bias from its textbooks for classes 1-12. The move is in line with the government’s commitment to promote gender equality and empower girls. Over the past decade, several studies have highlighted the prevalence of gender stereotypes and discrimination in NCERT textbooks, which have perpetuated harmful narratives and influenced young minds. To address this, the council has formed a專題組to review and revise textbooks, ensuring they depict both genders in a fair and balanced manner. The專題組, consisting of subject experts, gender specialists, and teachers, will scrutinize textbooks for biased language, images, and examples. They will work to create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students. “This is a significant step towards promoting gender equality in our educational system,” said an NCERT official. “By removing gender bias from textbooks, we can empower girls and encourage them to pursue their dreams without limitations.” The revised textbooks are expected to be rolled out in the academic year 2024-25. NCERT has invited feedback and suggestions from stakeholders, including teachers, students, and parents, to ensure the changes are comprehensive and effective. The initiative is part of a larger effort by the government to promote gender equality in all spheres of society. It is hoped that the revised textbooks will contribute to creating a more just and equitable environment for girls and boys in India.
