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What is the Meaning of “Data”?

Data
/ˈdeɪtə/

Information or facts gathered for study or use.

Definition of Data

Quick Meaning of Data

Information or facts gathered for study or use.

Detailed Definition of Data

Factual information collected or analyzed.

How to Pronounce Data

IPA: /ˈdeɪtə/
da ta

Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).

Tip: Stress first syllable: DAY-tuh. The 'a' sounds like 'ay' in 'day'.

Watch out: 'DAH-tuh' (incorrect stress); 'DAY-tah' (incorrect vowel).

Full pronunciation guide for “data” →

Origin and Etymology of Data

From Latin datum (plural data), meaning 'given thing'.

How to Use Data in a Sentence

Each example shows “data” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “The research data shows a clear trend in recent years.”
    B1 academic
  • “Companies collect personal data to improve their services.”
    B1 formal
  • “Statistical data indicates that online shopping has increased significantly.”
    B2 written

Synonyms and Antonyms of Data

Common Synonyms for Data

Smart Synonyms for Data — When to Use Each

information
General facts or knowledge in any form
statistics
Data presented as numbers or percentages
evidence
Data used to support a claim or argument

See all synonyms for “data” →

Common Collocations with Data

These phrases pair with “data” in everyday English:

  • collect data
  • analyze data
  • data analysis
  • raw data
  • personal data

Common Mistakes When Using Data

Even fluent speakers slip up with “data”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: The data are showing interesting results.
✓ Correct: The data is showing interesting results.
Why: Data is treated as uncountable singular in modern English usage.
✗ Wrong: He gathered much data on the topic.
✓ Correct: He gathered a lot of data on the topic.
Why: Use 'a lot of' with uncountable nouns; 'much' works but is less natural in speech.

Words Confused With Data

  • Data vs Information: Data is raw facts; information is organized data with meaning.
  • Data vs Datum: Datum is the singular form, rarely used in modern English.

Other Forms of Data

Frequently Asked Questions About Data

What is the meaning of "Data"?

Information or facts gathered for study or use.

How do you pronounce "Data"?

The IPA is /ˈdeɪtə/. Stress first syllable: DAY-tuh. The 'a' sounds like 'ay' in 'day'.

What part of speech is "Data"?

"Data" is a noun at B2 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Data"?

Common synonyms include information, facts, statistics.

How do you use "Data" in a sentence?

For example: "The research data shows a clear trend in recent years."

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