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Ternary Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ternary

[หˆtษœrnษ™ri ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

mathematics, programming

Ternary refers to something that consists of three parts or elements. In mathematics and programming, it often describes operations or functions that involve three operands.

Synonyms

threefold, trinitarian, tripartite.

Examples of usage

  • Ternary operator allows for a compact conditional statement.
  • In a ternary system, numbers are expressed using base three.
  • The ternary structure of the composition creates a balanced piece.
Context #2 | Noun

mathematics, programming

In programming, a ternary expression is a shorthand for an if-else statement, allowing you to assign a value based on a condition succinctly. It typically takes the form of 'condition ? value_if_true : value_if_false'.

Synonyms

conditional expression, ternary operator.

Examples of usage

  • You can use a ternary for simple conditional assignments.
  • The ternary syntax varies between programming languages.
  • JavaScript supports the ternary operator for conditional expressions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In mathematics, 'ternary' refers to a number system that uses three digits โ€“ typically 0, 1, and 2.
  • Ternary trees are a type of data structure that can have up to three children per node, useful in computer science.

Music

  • In music, 'ternary form' is a structure that consists of three parts, often labeled as A-B-A, emphasizing a return to the initial theme.
  • This musical format creates a sense of familiarity, as the first section returns after contrasting themes.

Chemistry

  • In chemistry, a ternary compound consists of three elements, often forming unique molecular structures and properties.
  • Ternary systems are important in understanding the interactions between three reactive components in a mixture.

Literature

  • Ternary structure appears in storytelling as a way to organize narratives into three distinct acts or parts, enhancing dramatic tension.
  • Many folk tales utilize a ternary pattern, offering three trials, three brothers, or three wishes to emphasize lessons or themes.

Origin of 'ternary'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'ternary' comes from the Latin 'ternarius', meaning 'three each' or 'threefold'.
  • It shares roots with the word 'tern', which refers to the grouping of three devices or elements.

The term 'ternary' is derived from the Latin word 'ternarius', which means 'consisting of three.' It can be traced back to the word 'terni', meaning 'three each.' The adoption of 'ternary' in English dates back to the 15th century, primarily used in mathematical contexts to describe systems based on three parts or elements. Over time, its use has expanded into various fields, including logic, computing, and linguistics, to denote concepts that involve the number three. The concept of ternarity is significant in many areas such as the ternary numeral system in mathematics and ternary logic in computing, which further emphasizes the importance of the trio in different methodologies.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,605, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.