Binary: meaning, definitions and examples

💻

Add to dictionary

binary

[ˈbaɪnəri ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

computer science

Relating to, composed of, or involving two things.

Synonyms

double, dual, pair.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
binary	Used in the context of computing and mathematics to refer to a system of numbers using 0 and 1, or to something consisting of two parts. It conveys a technical or scientific context. The binary code is fundamental in computer programming A binary star is a system of two stars orbiting around a common center
dual	Used to refer to something that has two parts, functions, or aspects which are often separate or distinct. Commonly used in technical, formal, or abstract contexts. She holds dual citizenship in both countries The car has a dual exhaust system
double	Used to describe something that is twice as much or consisting of two identical parts. It often conveys a sense of increased quantity or extent. He ordered a double portion of fries The company experienced double the revenue this quarter
pair	Used to refer to two people or things that are the same or intended to be used together. It conveys a more casual or everyday context. I bought a new pair of shoes They make a great pair on the dance floor

Examples of usage

The binary code consists of only two digits, 0 and 1.
Computers process data in binary format.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

general

Characterized by or consisting of two parts or components; twofold.

Synonyms

bifold, dichotomous, double-barreled.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
binary	Used in contexts involving two distinct parts or components. Often used in computing, decision making, and describing systems with two states. The binary code is the foundation of all modern computing. She saw the world in binary terms, as either black or white.
dichotomous	Used to describe something that is divided into two completely opposite aspects or categories. Often in scientific, philosophical, or social discussions. The debate framed the issue in a dichotomous way, seeing it only as right or wrong. He held a dichotomous worldview, distinguishing everything as good or evil.
bifold	Refers specifically to something that folds into two parts. Commonly used for describing types of doors or pamphlets. We decided to install a bifold door for easy access to the garden. The bifold brochure provided a lot of useful information.
double-barreled	Often used to describe something that has two parts or purposes, usually in names or questions. It can sometimes have a negative or complex connotation. He asked a double-barreled question that was difficult to answer straightforwardly. She has a double-barreled surname, combining both her parents' last names.

Examples of usage

The binary nature of the relationship between light and dark.
The binary opposition of good and evil.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

computer science

A system of numerical notation that has 2 rather than 10 as a base.

Synonyms

base-2, double, dual.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
binary	Use when referring to the number system that uses only two digits, 0 and 1. Often found in computing and digital electronics. Computers use binary code to process data. Binary numbers are fundamental in computer science.
base-2	Use when explicitly referring to the type of number system in mathematical or educational contexts. It highlights the base of the number system. In base-2, the number 10 represents the decimal number 2. Understanding base-2 is essential for studying computer algorithms.
dual	Use when referring to two parts or two aspects of something. It can be used in various contexts like roles, functions, or characteristics. She has dual citizenship and can travel freely between two countries. The company has a dual role as both a manufacturer and a retailer.
double	Use when referring to something twice as much or a duplicate. It is often used in everyday language rather than technical contexts. Please give me a double portion of dessert. You need to double-check your work for errors.

Examples of usage

Understanding binary is essential in computer programming.
Binary is the language of computers.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'bini', meaning 'two at a time'.
The modern use in mathematics and computing started around the 17th century.
Binary notation was first conceptualized by mathematician Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz in the 1700s.

Technology

Most computer systems use binary code to process data, reflecting the on/off states of electrical circuits.
Every website, app, and digital device operates using binary code behind the scenes.
The internet primarily transmits data in binary form, making it a fundamental aspect of all digital communication.

Mathematics

In binary, only two digits (0 and 1) are used to express numbers, which can represent any value in a different base system.
Each position in a binary number represents a power of two, making it a positional number system.
Converting from binary to decimal involves summing powers of two corresponding to the positions of 1s in the binary number.

Culture

Binary relationships in storytelling often represent oppositions, like good vs. evil or light vs. dark.
The concept of binary oppositions has influenced literature and critical theory, emphasizing dualities in various contexts.
In modern art, binary themes can symbolize contrasts and multiplicity in human experience, reflecting complexity in simplicity.

Computer Science

Every character you see on your screen is represented in binary using encoding systems like ASCII or Unicode.
Programming languages often compile down to binary code to optimize performance and efficiency.
Understanding binary is essential for anyone looking to pursue a career in technology or computer science, as it forms the foundation of all digital operations.

Translations

Translations of the word "binary" in other languages:

🇵🇹 binário

🇮🇳 बाइनरी

🇩🇪 binär

🇮🇩 biner

🇺🇦 двійковий

🇵🇱 binarny

🇯🇵 バイナリ

🇫🇷 binaire

🇪🇸 binario

🇹🇷 ikili

🇰🇷 이진법의

🇸🇦 ثنائي

🇨🇿 binární

🇸🇰 binárny

🇨🇳 二进制

🇸🇮 binarni

🇮🇸 tvíundakerfi

🇰🇿 екілік

🇬🇪 ბინარული

🇦🇿 ikili

🇲🇽 binario

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,299 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

...
6296 catalog
6297 finishing
6298 commented
6299 binary
6300 lowering
6301 labels
6302 decorated
...