Thanks for asking this question, @Growernick.
I use the term “cultivar” most often, as it is scientifically correct.
However, in some cases (usually informally), I’ll use the word strain. Scientifically it’s incorrect, but something feels wrong about brushing such a strong vernacular aside and telling people that they’re wrong. It’s a cultural affront, in some ways.
It’s like telling people from the south that “y’all” isn’t a word - technically, it’s “you all,” but if you tell a southerner that they are wrong for using that vernacular, they will likely run alla y’all out of town. (PS I am a southerner - born and raised in Atlanta, GA, and I will never stop saying y’all – even in Oregon! – or its possessive, y’all’s, for that matter.)
All of this said, there is a need to have more informed conversations based on actual science. I think it’s appropriate to push the use of “cultivar” and “variety,” but let’s not be jerks to people when they use the word “strain.” The more we can do to bring the scientific community and the old school grower community together, the better, and use of language is one way to either invite people into the conversation or shut them out.