The spelling of the term "result set" is straightforward, but understanding its pronunciation requires the use of the International Phonetic Alphabet. In IPA, "result" is written as /rɪˈzʌlt/, with the stress on the second syllable and a short "i" sound. "Set" is written as /sɛt/, with the "e" pronounced like in "bed" and a final "t" sound. When used together, the term is pronounced as /rɪˈzʌlt sɛt/. This is commonly used in computer programming to refer to a group of search results.
A result set, in the context of computer science and database management, refers to the collection of data derived from the execution of a query or a database search operation. It represents the outcome or output of a database operation that matches certain criteria or conditions defined by the user.
When a query is executed against a database, the result set is produced as a structured representation of the records or rows from the database that satisfy the specified conditions. It typically consists of rows and columns, organized in a tabular format.
The result set is an essential component in retrieving and managing data from databases, as it allows users to review, analyze, and manipulate the data obtained from their query. It provides a comprehensive summary of the information that meets the search criteria, enabling users to extract meaningful insights or perform further operations on the data.
Result sets are commonly used in various applications, including web development, data analysis, and reporting. They can be generated from simple queries that retrieve specific fields from a single table, or from complex queries involving multiple tables and criteria. Additionally, result sets can be sorted, filtered, or aggregated to further refine the data according to the user's requirements.
In summary, a result set is a set of data returned by a database operation, such as a query, and is instrumental in facilitating data retrieval, analysis, and manipulation within computer systems.
The term "result set" originated from the field of database management systems. It is composed of two words:
1. Result: It comes from the Latin word "resultare", meaning "to leap back" or "to rebound". In the context of a query or a search, a result refers to the outcome or the answer produced as a result of an operation or calculation.
2. Set: It has its roots in Old English and Old Norse languages, where "sett" and "setja" respectively meant "to place" or "to put". In mathematics and computer science, a set refers to a collection or grouping of distinct elements.
Combining these two words, the term "result set" signifies a collection of data or records obtained as a result of a query or statement executed against a database.