Other Definitions
notation (dict)
|
NotationWhile there is no universal agreement, the word notation can be used in several senses: - In its most common usage, notation refers to the typographical conventions or rules of symbol usage that are followed, e.g., within a book or article. Examples of this usage include:
- In another sense, notation is short for notational system, meaning an interpreted system of tokens having a syntax and a semantics. The medium used by a notational system (e.g., paper, clay tablets, digital memory) defines and delimits the possible characteristics of its tokens. The tokens of a notational system designate (refer to) abstractions that are reified by the notational system. The following is a small set of examples of notational systems used in various disciplines:
Under its broader definition, notational systems would include speech (a way of inscribing semantically meaningful vibrations upon the medium of air); money (a combined token-and-medium that attempts to represent value); logical notation; cartography; and of course writing. While the alphabet is the most famous revolutionary notational system, there have been many notational revolutions in the development of homo sapiens sapiens. While notational systems have had a great impact on civilization, they are not themselves studied comparatively and longitudinally as a coherent subject, but rather are considered bit layers within the disciplines they support and enable. -
|
 |