Spell-Like Ability confusion?

[hong]

rotf... hong, you can always be counted on to fill the day with entertaining dialogue.


Mike

You think this is all a joke, don't you? DON'T YOU???//?slash

 

[mikebr99]

You think this is all a joke, don't you? DON'T YOU???//?slash

Yeah, dood... you got some funny schtick!

Mike

 

[sledged]

in other words, the spell description forms part of the ability description.

Nope. The ability description is that descriptive text following the ability name. The spell description is that formatted descriptive text following a spell name. It's just that simple.

Your entire argument is based on the presence or absence of TWO WORDS.

Two words can make all the difference, especially in a language where the mere placement of punctuation alone can change the whole meaning of phrases. If "or spell" had been included in the combat section under "spell-like abilities" (or removed from the magic section), Mulkhoran would have never posted his question in the first place.

For another example of how the presence or absence of two words create conflicting rules, look up the brilliant energy weapon quality in the DMG and the SRD.

"Ability description" is not a term of art, and neither is "spell description". Your entire argument hinges on the assumption that you can define these phrases narrowly, when all the evidence points to their being simple, plain English terms.

The terms "spell-like ability" and "spell" have been precisely defined. Tacking on the word "description" does not cause one to be included with the other. Reinforce this with the fact that the core rules explicitly say that spell-like abilities are not spells, and you have two seperate and distinct terms. The rules of D&D function primarily on the fact that terms and phrases have been so narrowly defined. The terms help the rules to refer to a specific aspect or concept without confusing it with others; though even then it doesn't guarantee clarity for the reader. The level-related terms alone have caused much confusion (i.e. character level, class level, ECL, level adjustment, caster level, etc...).

The rules also explicitly state that unless overruled elsewhere, you go to the spell description to find out what the ability does; that is, it describes the ability.

"The casting time of a spell-like ability is 1 standard action, unless the ability description notes otherwise."

That's a very straight-forward overrulling.

Not, of course, that it had anything to do with the price of tea in China.

No? You asked for exact locations, and I provided you with exact locations. What more were you looking for?