boolean: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal/Technical
Quick answer
What does “boolean” mean?
A logical data type that can have only one of two possible values, typically representing true or false.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A logical data type that can have only one of two possible values, typically representing true or false.
Relating to a system of logical operations (like AND, OR, NOT) based on these true/false values. In informal usage, can describe a simplistic choice or situation with only two options.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in core meaning or spelling. Both use 'boolean' as a standard term in computing and logic.
Connotations
Identical technical connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in American English due to the larger tech industry, but it is a core term in both varieties' technical registers.
Grammar
How to Use “boolean” in a Sentence
The function returns a boolean.It takes a boolean as an argument.The condition must evaluate to a boolean.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “boolean” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The database query uses several boolean conditions to refine the results.
- You'll need a boolean variable to track whether the process is complete.
American English
- Make sure the function returns a boolean result.
- The search feature supports boolean operators like AND and NOT.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in data analysis, search filter design, and decision-tree logic (e.g., 'Apply a boolean filter to the customer list').
Academic
Central to formal logic, computer science, mathematics, and digital circuit design.
Everyday
Rare. Might be used metaphorically to describe a black-and-white decision (e.g., 'My boss sees everything in boolean terms: success or failure').
Technical
The primary context. Found in programming, database queries, search engines, and electrical engineering.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “boolean”
- Pronouncing it as 'bool-ee-an' with a short 'u' (/bʊl/). Correct is 'boo-lee-an' (/buːliən/).
- Using it as a synonym for 'binary' in non-logical contexts (e.g., 'a boolean outcome of the election' is unnatural).
- Misspelling as 'boolian'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In modern computing and technical writing, the lowercase 'boolean' is standard. The capital 'B' is used when referring directly to George Boole or in formal mathematical contexts like 'Boolean algebra'.
It is very rare in casual speech. It might be used metaphorically to criticise an oversimplified, black-and-white view of a situation (e.g., 'Stop thinking in such boolean terms!').
True and False. In different systems, these may be represented as 1/0, on/off, yes/no, etc.
Yes, they are closely related. 'Binary' refers to any system with two parts or states. 'Boolean' is a specific type of binary system concerned with logical operations and truth values.
A logical data type that can have only one of two possible values, typically representing true or false.
Boolean is usually formal/technical in register.
Boolean: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbuː.li.ən/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbuː.li.ən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “It's not a simple boolean choice.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a light switch: it's either ON (true) or OFF (false). This is a BOOLean state, named after George BOOle.
Conceptual Metaphor
LIFE IS A BINARY CODE (when used informally: complex situations are reduced to simple yes/no choices).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary characteristic of a 'boolean' data type?