I identify primarily as an atheist (this is me), and I've been in a number of discussions with a good friend of mine. Most of our beliefs line up pretty well, but he uses the term "god" to stand for the coherent structure/laws of the universe.

I mostly disagree with this use. He feels that it allows him to communicate more effectively with theists and come to common understanding. I think it muddles communication, because most people hearing that term will have a different definition and thus assign meaning to his statements that he doesn't intend.

But then I hear songs like this, and read things like this. What do you guys think? Is it productive to use the term "god" to start the conversation and then work to clarify?

Edit: A potential clarification - This subreddit is about debate, and in the cases where you intend to have a true debate, it's important to define terms. But not all conversations are debates. Is there a difference?