Translation and Meaning of: 配列 - hairetsu

The Japanese word 「配列」 (hairetsu) is used in the context of computer science and programming to refer to "arrays" or "matrices." The expression is formed by two kanji: 「配」 (hai), which usually means "distribution" or "arrangement," and 「列」 (retsu), which refers to "row" or "column." Thus, 「配列」 can be understood literally as "arrangement in a row," an appropriate concept for the sequential organization of data in programming.

The etymology of the word is quite clear and reflects well the technical use of the term. The kanji 「配」 has its origin in radicals related to distribution and delivery, while 「列」 comes from radicals associated with organization and sequence. Together, they provide an accurate description of what an array is – a data structure that allows storing multiple values in an ordered form. This combination is not only linguistic but extremely functional within programming languages.

In the realm of computing, the use of arrays is fundamental, as these structures are used to store and process sequences of data efficiently. This applies in various programming languages, such as Python, Java, C++, among others. The conception of arrays as 「配列」 helps reinforce the cultural and linguistic understanding of the concept in Japan, where ordering and the system have significant cultural importance.

In addition to its technical application, 「配列」 can also be found in non-computational contexts in the Japanese language, usually involving the arrangement of objects or the organization of events in order. For example, in planning a ceremony, one might use 「配列」 to describe the order of presentations or the seating arrangement. Thus, the term carries a versatility that transcends the digital world.