Oh, evolution is as real as anything. It's not understood properly, nor is it used properly. I don't like semantics much either, too many amateurs and dilettantes in the arena, but semiology is another matter. Evolution was created by a committee, a constantly evolving committee, and evolution itself is evolving. Semantics is a problem when it comes to the meaning of words; for example, Liberals equate Progress to Evolution as if evolution means improvement always. But, progress can be around and around a circular track.
As the Red Queen said, words mean what I intend them to mean. Progress means to step forward, that is, in the direction you happen to be facing. Evolution means to turn out--like kneading bread dough.
We need to understand and deal with that which is real. Indeed, too many people are trying to obfuscate, but I'm not at all sure you and I are talking about the same people.
Out for the night.