Standards? A sceptical look at acoustical standards defining“quantities” and units, with particular attention to so‐called logarithmic quantities, notable “levels” and “losses.”

Speak acronymic—read logarithmic. The spoken and written languages of levels, losses, ratios, reference quantities, and “nonlinear arithmetic” are reviewed in the context of “standard” acoustical terminology. The roles of the standards organizations, the sponsor, and the writing group are discussed, with comments on responsibility and authority. A different approach is proposed, based simply on the application of physical laws and scientific principles, with special attention given to dimensions and clear, unambiguous language. Current practice utilizes “representative” committees which seem to function not unlike congressional subcommittees, often influenced by political, parochial, and “party” considerations. To achieve real significance and appropriate recognition, a scientific/engineering standard should be the ultimate arbiter, legally “the authority,” and should therefore be unassailably valid, accurate, precise—and limited to matters of substance. The fate of the dictionary, which has become simply a reporter of usage, improper as well as proper, must be avoided.