Robert Moore wrote:
Mike Ash wrote
Anyway, my question: I think I understand the legal distinction
between licensing and certification, but what are the *practical*
consequences to me as a pilot in that distinction? In other words,
how would my life as a pilot be different if the US licensed pilots
rather than certifying them?

Probably none...but if the issuing authority calls a piece of paper or
plastic a "certificate", why would anyone call it something
else?

For your edification:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colloquialism

"Words that have a formal meaning may also have a colloquial meaning that,
while technically incorrect, is recognizable due to common usage."

...... ignorance???

In your case, I think pedantry.