when is a Tail a "tail" ?

An AAVSO Luddite has written our club claiming:
"I assure you there is no tail". (17P Holmes)

So, when is a tail a tail, or is there a tail, or are professionals
studying "the tail in the UV" (their words) all wet?

I wouldnt even bring this to this group except for the fact this
AAVSO (expert!) is really bashing us with this, as usual.

Is there a middle ground on this?

I. Dunno