As for the current debate, why stress over a simple word?
Because the chaps sitting behind the desks writing this stuff have to be told it is nonsense. First this, then what's next? More and more verbal diarrhoea and complicated SOPs. Stand up and fight you AB lot!
Who the hell cares if you say right is clear or right side clear.
Just do the check and announce. Simple.
If it is in the SOPs, then it should been done properly. Sama sama radio calls. It isn't difficult; learn the correct way and do it.
were the terms 'starboard' and 'port' ever used in aviation
I sometimes use P or S in the tech log so the engos know which side I'm talking about regardless of whether they are walking forward or backward thru the cabin...