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databaseuml

Multiplicity vs Cardinality


When talking about data models and databases, the term Cardinality is often used to describe the number of allowed elements in a given set.

UML often refers to the same property as Multiplicity.

Is there any difference between these two terms or are they synonymous?


Solution

  • The simplest explanation would be to say:

    Multiplicity = Cardinality + Participation

    Cardinality: Denotes the maximum number of possible relationship occurrences in which a certain entity can participate in (in simple terms: at most).

    Participation: Denotes if all or only some entity occurrences participate in a relationship (in simple terms: at least).

    Ex: enter image description here