>> "oh, is that why if you open two web pages at once it sometimes gives
>> you an error message?"
>>
>> I'm talking about layer 6, they're talking about layer 1382. Which is
>> somewhat higher than layer 6. Obviously.
> 
> 
> In some cases, a metaphor can help.  Finding a suitable metaphor that fits on
> every level is extremely difficult if not impossible.  However, (assuming the
> person is interested in the subject as well as the conversation) using a
> metaphor that illustrates the difference between what you are talking about and
> what they are thinking about can help.  For example, in that particular case,
> you could draw a comparison between you trying to discuss the function of
> automotive engine parts while they are asking about being stuck in a traffic
> jam.  The metaphor doesn't work on every level, but it carries the gist of the
> distance between hardware function and user experience.

That's actually not bad, you know...

> Of course, tact may be quite important here.

Well yeah, like you say, it depends on whether they're interested or 
not, and so on. And, of course, whether or not you want this person to 
like you. If some hot-shot manager asks this, you might actually *want* 
them to come away feeling like a moron. >:-] On the other hand, if 
you're chatting to friends, they presumably have a sense of humour. ;-)

-- 
http://blog.orphi.me.uk/
http://www.zazzle.com/MathematicalOrchid*

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