"Data suggest" vs "Data suggests"

Question

"Data suggest" vs "Data suggests"

Both 'data suggests' and 'data suggest' can be correct depending on the context. 'Data suggests' is used when referring to data as a singular entity, while 'data suggest' is used when referring to data as a plural noun. The choice between the two depends on whether you are treating 'data' as a singular or plural noun.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

Use 'data suggest' when referring to data as a plural noun, indicating that the data collectively suggests something.

Examples:

The data suggest different possible outcomes.
Data suggest that there are discrepancies in the results.

Alternatives:

The data indicate
The data show
The data imply
The data reveal
The data point to

Use 'data suggests' when referring to data as a singular entity, indicating that the data is suggesting something.

Examples:

The data suggests a strong correlation between the two variables.
Data suggests that there is a need for further investigation.

Alternatives:

The data indicates
The data shows
The data implies
The data reveals
The data points to

Answer 1

Data suggest

This phrase is correct when 'data' is treated as a plural noun.

Answer 2

Data suggests

This phrase is correct when 'data' is treated as a singular noun.

"Data suggest" vs "Data suggests"

Data suggest

Data suggests

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