# binary

/ˈbaɪnɝi/ (US) · /bˈaɪnəɹi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/binary
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. having two parts

adjective · CEFR B2

having two parts or involving two things.

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

- The scientists looked at a binary star system where two stars orbit each other.
- The researchers analyzed the binary relationship between the two chemical compounds to see how they reacted under pressure.

### 2. computing/math

adjective · CEFR B2 · Technical

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

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

- Computers process all information using binary code made of zeros and ones.
- The processor executes instructions by manipulating binary digits, which represent the most fundamental level of data storage.

### 3. two exclusive choices

adjective · CEFR C1 · Academic

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

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

- The debate was not a simple binary choice between right and wrong.
- Sociologists argue that viewing gender as a strict binary fails to account for the diverse experiences of many individuals.

### 4. a system of two

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

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

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

- We need to move beyond the binary of 'us versus them' to find a solution.
- The traditional binary of nature versus nurture is increasingly seen as an oversimplification of human development.

### 5. a computer file

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

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

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

- You need to download the binary for the software before you can install it.
- The developer uploaded the compiled binaries to the server, ensuring they were compatible with various operating systems.

## Examples

- Computers process all information as a simple binary of zeros and ones.
- The debate was framed as a false binary between economic growth and environmental protection.
- In astronomy, a binary consists of two stars orbiting a common center of mass, providing essential data for calculating stellar weights and distances.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.