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REFERENCE

binary

adj. · n.
US //ˈbaɪnɝi// UK //bˈaɪnəɹi// bi·na·ry
  1. 1 having two parts (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    having two parts or involving two things.

    composed of or involving two things or parts; characterized by a dual nature.

    Example

    The scientists looked at a binary star system where two stars orbit each other.

    Example

    The researchers analyzed the binary relationship between the two chemical compounds to see how they reacted under pressure.
  2. 2 computing/math (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Computing

    related to a system of numbers that uses only 0 and 1.

    relating to or using a system of numerical notation that has 2 as its base.

    Example

    Computers process all information using binary code made of zeros and ones.

    Example

    The processor executes instructions by manipulating binary digits, which represent the most fundamental level of data storage.
    • base 2
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  1. 3 two exclusive choices (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

    describing a situation where there are only two possible and opposite choices.

    relating to a system or logic where only two mutually exclusive states or outcomes are possible.

    Example

    The debate was not a simple binary choice between right and wrong.

    Example

    Sociologists argue that viewing gender as a strict binary fails to account for the diverse experiences of many individuals.
    • either or
    • dualistic
  2. 4 a system of two (n.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

    a way of looking at something as having only two opposite parts.

    a situation or system in which there are only two possible states or distinct parts.

    Example

    We need to move beyond the binary of 'us versus them' to find a solution.

    Example

    The traditional binary of nature versus nurture is increasingly seen as an oversimplification of human development.
  3. 5 a computer file (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Computing

    a type of computer file that is not just plain text.

    an executable program or a data file stored in a format that is not human-readable text.

    Example

    You need to download the binary for the software before you can install it.

    Example

    The developer uploaded the compiled binaries to the server, ensuring they were compatible with various operating systems.
    • text file
Origin

From Late Latin bīnārius (“consisting of two”), from Latin bīnī (“two-by-two, pair”). By surface analysis, bin- + -ary.

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