“有理数”、“无理数”,这两个数学名词,好像是和我们朝夕相处的老友一样,经常在数学书刊上露面。 可是,老友的名称,却让我们叫歪了。 原来,有理数译自rational number。ratio译成“比”是正确的。rational是ratio的形容词形式。这样,如把rational number译成“比数”,比较妥当。 “Rational numbers” and “irrational numbers”, these two mathematical terms, seem to be the same as the old friends we have been with each other day and night, often appearing in mathematics publications. However, the old friend’s name makes us shout. Originally, rational numbers were translated from rational numbers. The ratio translated as “than” is correct. Rational is the adjective form of ratio. In this way, if the rational number is translated into “number”, it is more appropriate.