Bit: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿ’ป
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bit

 

[ bษชt ]

Noun / Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

computer technology

A bit is the smallest unit of data in a computer. It can have a value of either 0 or 1, representing binary digits.

Synonyms

binary digit, digit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bit

Commonly used in computing and digital electronics to refer to a basic unit of information. A bit can have a value of either 0 or 1.

  • A bit represents a binary value used in digital circuits.
  • The file size is measured in bits.
binary digit

Specifically emphasizes the dual-state (0 or 1) nature of digital information. Often used in mathematical or theoretical contexts.

  • A binary digit is the most basic form of data in the binary system.
  • Binary digits are fundamental to computer processing.
digit

A more general term that refers to any single numerical symbol from 0 to 9. Commonly used in arithmetic and everyday number usage.

  • The number 456 is made up of three digits.
  • Please enter the three-digit security code.

Examples of usage

  • A byte consists of 8 bits.
  • This image file is 16 bits per pixel.
  • The processor processes data one bit at a time.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

A small piece, part, or quantity of something.

Synonyms

fragment, portion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bit

Used to refer to a small piece or amount of something, often informally.

  • Can I have a bit of your sandwich?
  • She added a bit of sugar to her tea.
fragment

Used to describe a small part broken off or detached from something larger, often referring to physical objects or abstract concepts.

  • They found a fragment of the ancient vase.
  • The essay seemed like a series of disconnected fragments.
portion

Used to denote a part of a whole, often referring to food but can also be applied to other divisible elements.

  • She served a generous portion of lasagna.
  • A portion of the profits will be donated to charity.

Examples of usage

  • She added a bit of sugar to her coffee.
  • Can I have a bit of your sandwich?
Context #3 | Verb

informal

To perform in a specified manner, especially in a show or other entertainment.

Synonyms

act, perform.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bit

Bit is also used in the context of computing to refer to a basic unit of information in computing.

  • Each memory address stores 8 bits.
  • The file is 16 bits long.
perform

Use 'perform' when referring to carrying out an action or task, often with a focus on how it's done, or when talking about presenting a form of entertainment.

  • The surgeon will perform the operation tomorrow.
  • The band will perform at the concert tonight.
act

Use 'act' when referring to doing something, especially in a deliberate or formal way, or when talking about a performance, such as in theatre or film.

  • He decided to act quickly to save the company.
  • Her performance in the play was outstanding; she really knows how to act.

Examples of usage

  • She will be singing and dancing a bit in the play.
  • He can bit like a professional actor.

Translations

Translations of the word "bit" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น bit

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคฌเคฟเคŸ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Bit

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ bit

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะฑั–ั‚

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ bit

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใƒ“ใƒƒใƒˆ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท bit

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ bit

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท bit

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๋น„ํŠธ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุจุช

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ bit

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ bit

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๆฏ”็‰น

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ bit

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ bit

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะฑะธั‚

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ‘แƒ˜แƒขแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ bit

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ bit

Etymology

The term 'bit' originated as a contraction of 'binary digit'. It was first introduced by Claude Shannon in his 1948 paper 'A Mathematical Theory of Communication'. The concept of bits and binary digits revolutionized the field of computing and information theory, leading to the development of digital technology as we know it today.

See also: bits.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,412, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.