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In the case of describing an attribute type which has two values (yes or no) is binominal the same as boolean? A source would be great.

MRobinson
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user3352632
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1 Answers1

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I wouldn't say that. Binominal stresses that the item on hand has two names, rather than two values. It is not so appropriate. I'd rather use bivalued for a discrete attribute having two cases, such as black/white.

Boolean specifically applies to variables taking values in $\{0,1\}$, which can be mapped to logical values false and true. Boolean algebra (computation with these numbers) parallels the rules of propositional calculus.

  • Is there really such a word as "binominal"? – Gerry Myerson Sep 04 '18 at 09:17
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    @GerryMyerson: having or characterized by two names, especially those of genus and species in taxonomies; "binomial nomenclature of bacteria" [no typo] –  Sep 04 '18 at 09:32
  • I'm pretty sure the OP means binomial... – MRobinson Sep 04 '18 at 09:54
  • @MRobinson: I am pretty sure he doesn't know. In any case, not with the mathematical meaning. He also posted on polynominal, not referring to polynomials (though he used the tag). –  Sep 04 '18 at 09:59
  • @YvesDaoust I'm not going to criticise them for a typo/potential language based error. Your answer is still a good one (hence my upvote), obviously Binomial has two values, but not necessary 0,1. I'm just splitting hairs! – MRobinson Sep 04 '18 at 10:11
  • @MRobinson: I don't confirm that. Binomial usually refers to pairs of terms (giving by-products such as the binomial coefficients and distribution), not to split values (pun intended). –  Sep 04 '18 at 10:15
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    @YvesDaoust You're not wrong, and I think we are coming from the same page. I guess I just think the OP should be given a break! – MRobinson Sep 04 '18 at 10:17