adjective

binary

/ˈbaɪnəri/ · say it: BY·ner·ee

the base-two number system computers use

In Technology & Computing

In more detail

1. (adjective) relating to or composed of two things

2. (adjective) using only the numbers 0 and 1, used by computers

3. (noun) a system or code that uses only two states or values

Examples

1. The binary choice between accepting or rejecting the offer left no middle ground.
2. Computers store data in binary code.
3. The binary of 5 is 101.

How to use binary

Binary is used in computing and mathematics to describe systems based on two distinct states (0/1, true/false), and more generally in academic discourse to describe any two-part division or opposition. In computing contexts it is technical and precise; in social contexts it can be philosophical or critical, particularly when discussing conceptual categories.

Common phrases

binary code
binary system
binary choice
binary opposition
binary digits
binary data

Synonyms

dual · two-part · twofold

Opposites

unary · ternary · multiple

Word family

binarily (adverb) · binarity (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse binary with bipartite; binary specifically emphasizes the two-state or two-value nature, while bipartite emphasizes a two-part structure or division of groups.

Learn it for good

Save this word in WordVale and it comes back for review right before you'd forget it — with pronunciation, real examples, and optional translations. One purchase, no subscription.

Get WordValeFREE 7-DAY TRIAL · iPHONE & iPAD