logical sum: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical/Academic
Quick answer
What does “logical sum” mean?
In mathematics and computing, the result of the logical operation OR, where the output is true if at least one of the inputs is true.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
In mathematics and computing, the result of the logical operation OR, where the output is true if at least one of the inputs is true.
In formal logic and set theory, the union of two sets, or a proposition that is true when at least one of its component propositions is true.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in technical usage. In teaching materials, UK texts might use 'inclusive disjunction' more often as a synonym.
Connotations
Purely technical, with no regional connotative variation.
Frequency
Equally frequent in technical academic and professional fields in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “logical sum” in a Sentence
The logical sum of A and Bto compute the logical suma logical sum representingVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “logical sum” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The circuit will logically sum the two input signals.
- To solve this, you need to logically sum the outputs of the previous gates.
American English
- The program will logically sum the boolean values.
- You can logically sum those conditions using the OR operator.
adverb
British English
- [Not standard]
American English
- [Not standard]
adjective
British English
- A logical-sum operation is fundamental to the processor's design.
- They created a logical-sum gate as part of the exercise.
American English
- The logical-sum function is clearly defined in the truth table.
- We analyzed the logical-sum output.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in technical business roles like data analysis or systems architecture.
Academic
Common in mathematics, computer science, philosophy (logic), and electrical engineering courses.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Core term in programming, digital electronics, and formal logic.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “logical sum”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “logical sum”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “logical sum”
- Confusing 'logical sum' (OR) with 'arithmetic sum' (addition) or 'logical product' (AND).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Addition is an arithmetic operation on numbers. Logical sum is a Boolean operation on TRUE/FALSE values, equivalent to OR.
Primarily in textbooks and contexts related to computer science, digital electronics, and mathematical logic.
Common symbols include + (in Boolean algebra), ∨ (in logic), and OR or | in programming languages.
Yes, the logical sum (OR) operation can be applied to any number of inputs. The result is true if at least one input is true.
In mathematics and computing, the result of the logical operation OR, where the output is true if at least one of the inputs is true.
Logical sum is usually technical/academic in register.
Logical sum: in British English it is pronounced /ˌlɒdʒɪkəl ˈsʌm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌlɑːdʒɪkəl ˈsʌm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[Not typically used idiomatically]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a team where a decision is made if ONE person says YES (logical sum/OR), versus a decision requiring EVERYONE to say YES (logical product/AND).
Conceptual Metaphor
ACCUMULATION OF POSSIBILITIES; a net that catches any true value.
Practice
Quiz
What is another, more formal name for 'logical sum'?