Translation guide
The English word 'binary' can refer to a system with two parts, the base-2 number system, or something having two possible states. This guide covers how to express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
Describing something that is made up of two elements, or a dual system.
Specifically refers to the binary number system (base-2). Use this when talking about binary in computing or mathematics.
コンピューターは二進法を使っている。
Computers use the binary system.
Means 'duality' or 'two elements'. Often used in philosophical or abstract contexts to describe a binary opposition.
善と悪の二元論
a binary view of good and evil
Means 'two terms' or 'binomial'. Used in mathematics or logic for binary relations or operations.
二項演算
binary operation
Describing something that can be in one of two states, like on/off, true/false, or 0/1.
Literally 'two values'. Commonly used in computing and electronics for binary states.
A colloquial way to express a binary choice, literally '0 or 1'. Often used in casual tech contexts.
この問題は0か1かで答えられる。
This problem can be answered in binary (yes/no).
Referring to binary as a format for data, files, or machine code.
The loanword 'binary' used in computing contexts, such as binary files or binary data.
バイナリファイルをダウンロードする。
Download the binary file.
Means 'binary format'. Used when specifying data representation.
データをバイナリ形式で保存する。
Save the data in binary format.
In astronomy, a system of two stars orbiting each other.
The standard astronomical term for a binary star system.
シリウスは連星である。
Sirius is a binary star.
Literally 'double star'. Can refer to optical doubles or physical binaries, but less precise than 連星.
When describing a situation with only two options, using バイナリ or 二進法 sounds unnatural. Instead, use phrases like 二者択一 (binary choice) or simply describe the two options.
In computing, バイナリ is widely understood and often preferred for 'binary file/data'. For the number system, 二進法 is the standard term. Mixing them up can cause confusion.
Means 'choosing one of two alternatives'. Used when a decision is strictly binary.
進学か就職か、二者択一を迫られた。
I was forced to make a binary choice between going to college or getting a job.
望遠鏡で二重星を観測した。
I observed a binary star through the telescope.