Hello johngg.

Yes, it is shorter, but is it more readable? This also extends to the discussion of whether to use snake_case or camelCase. In my opinion camelCase is more succint (easier to type), whereas snake_case is more readable (but more difficult to type).

I also once used camelCase, so I can understand your choice. My main objection though is that the prefix syntax (that you propose) is not optional. See also comment to kcott for more information.