"data" vs "a data"

Question

"data" vs "a data"

Both 'data' and 'a data' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Data' is typically used as a mass noun, referring to information or facts, while 'a data' is less common and is used when referring to a single piece or set of information.

Last Updated: March 26, 2024

Use 'data' when referring to information or facts in general, without specifying a particular piece or set of information.

Examples:

The data shows a clear trend.
Data analysis is an important part of the research process.
The data collected will be used for the study.

Alternatives:

information
facts
statistics
figures
details

Use 'a data' when referring to a specific piece or set of information, rather than data in general.

Examples:

I need a data point to complete the analysis.
She provided a data set for the experiment.

Alternatives:

a piece of data
a set of data
an item of information
a single data point
a specific data set

Answer 1

data

This is correct. 'Data' is commonly used as a mass noun to refer to information or facts.

Answer 2

a data

This is correct but less common. 'A data' is used when referring to a single piece or set of information.

"data" vs "a data"

data

a data

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