2

I have a project that requires storing a latest file, previous file and 'one before the previous' file. Each will go in its own folder named: current, previous and {one before previous}. What do I call that third folder?

Improve this question
3

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
6

It's actually antepenultimate but this word is so uncommon that most people won't know what you mean. People tend to say something like "this one, the previous one, and the one before that".

I would be delighted if more people used antepenultimate but I have been on the losing side of many linguistic battles and am not optimistic on this one.

Improve this answer
2
  • What a great word. In conversation I would use "the one before". It seems a bit clumsy in written word though.
    – user1752971
    Apr 12, 2016 at 8:41
  • 1
    And, conveniently, antepenultimate, penultimate, and ultimate sort that way alphabetically - great for folks whose OCD extends to folder and directory structures!
    – Charl E
    Apr 12, 2016 at 9:46
1

This is a well established procedure in computer science, and the files are called grandfather, father and son files.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Backup_rotation_scheme

Improve this answer
2
  • Thanks. This implys some ancestral relationship that isn't present in this application, though.
    – user1752971
    Apr 12, 2016 at 8:47
  • "Antepenultimate" can be used when you're referring to versions of files. I don't think you'd use "father/son" terminology for versioning?
    – TrevorD
    Apr 12, 2016 at 12:07

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.