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I am trying to describe the distance from a root node in a programming context. The root node is abstract and not physical so I'm thinking the proper usage would be furthest, but what would be suggested here:

CHOICES
Closest to root node.
Furthest from root node

In this context, would it be more correct to say furthest or farthest?

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    You show that you're aware that the key difference is physical vs conceptual distance. Please edit to explain why you have second thoughts about "further"? I assume the decision hinges on the degree to which abstract concepts are being explained using a spatial analogy. Or are you not sure that "closest" can be a valid antonym of "furthest"?
    – Andy Bonner
    Commented Mar 2, 2022 at 22:55
  • @AndyBonner right, spatially and numerically, it could be "1 node away", "2 nodes away", etc. So in a way it could be a distance (for example on a number scale).
    – user1383058
    Commented Mar 3, 2022 at 1:08

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Further is for abstract or non-measurable distances. Farther is for physically measurable distances.

https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/is-it-further-or-farther-usage-how-to-use

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    well yes, but the number of nodes is quantifiable -- 1, 2, 3 nodes away, for example.
    – user1383058
    Commented Mar 3, 2022 at 1:07
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    I think this misrepresents the views put forth in the article (which looks very sound).
    – Edwin Ashworth
    Commented Mar 3, 2022 at 15:12
  • @user1383058 This gives a clue as to which word to use. If it is quantifiable, measurable, then use farther.
    – Steve
    Commented Mar 3, 2022 at 17:24
  • @EdwinAshworth to clarify, what do you mean by "article" ?
    – user1383058
    Commented Mar 3, 2022 at 18:56
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    @user1383058 He is referring to the link to an article in the answer I provided.
    – Steve
    Commented Mar 3, 2022 at 18:58

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