Jun 17, 2025 · It is treated as the plural form of datum, which means "a single piece of information." When data is used with computer science or digital technology it usually is treated as a singular …

Mar 3, 2023 · Is it a singular or plural noun? Is it correct to say data is or data are? Are they both correct? In this article, we will define the word data, explain how meaning and context can affect …

In research or scientific fields, you should say data are instead of data is. For example, an academician could say, “the data gathered for this study represent the whole population.”

Oct 10, 2019 · Data is or data are? Is data singular or plural? The word data came into English as the plural of the Latin word datum, which means “a single piece of information.” Over time, data became …

Jan 19, 2018 · The bottom line is that in general writing, you’re free to use “data” as singular or plural depending on what sounds right to you, but know that if you treat it as singular, some people might …

For many people, treating "data" as plural is starting to sound pretentious. Here are two definitions for the word "data": (1) Details, facts, and statistics collected for reference or analysis. (2) Information …

Oct 15, 2025 · The most straightforward answer: it depends on the context. Traditionally, “data” is the plural form of “datum,” so in formal or scientific writing, “data are” is correct. However, in everyday …

Aug 12, 2025 · Data is increasingly treated as a singular noun, especially in American English and in less formal contexts. Example: "The data is accurate." In formal, academic, or scientific writing: Use …

Apr 7, 2025 · Merriam-Webster’s dictionary says it’s “singular or plural in construction.” The dictionary adds: " Data leads a life of its own quite independent of datum, of which it was originally the plural.

Of course, this isn’t just about grammar and the word “data.” It’s about not gatekeeping, and communicating complex (but understandable) concepts to the public on their terms.