Confusion can be expected since Apple decided to use exactly the same connector for both Mini Display Port and Thunderbolt.
Yes, it might be confusing at first, but there is enough information readily available on the net to understand what's what.
I actually like the fact that Thunderbolt was designed as a beefed up version of the Mini Display port, that way it is completely backwards compatible.
If I already use the Mini Display port and upgrade my Mac to one with Thunderbolt, I can use the same cable for the same functionality.
Previously it seemed every technology enhancement required a new type of connector and with the various permutations and combinations one ended up with a large number of cables and adaptesr - at least I did.
Just for modern monitor video (not TV or projector) since about 2000 I can think of VGA, mini VGA, five versions of DVI, mini DVI, micro DVI, ADC, HDMI, Display port, Mini Display Port, and there are probably a few I forgot.
To distinguish between mini Display port and Thunderbolt 1, Apple shows the appropriate symbol right next to the connector, so you know what you have and what connectivity that port will support.
What I initially found confusing is that the USB-C port on the Mac is called Thunderbolt 3 even though the port is totally different than Thunderbolt 1 or 2.
Also that the connectivity you get that way can vary depending on the cable you connect - some cables seem to be used only for power.
I don't have any Macs with a USB-C port, so I haven't really checked into that in detail.