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data was vs data were

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

Last updated: March 15, 2024 • 1898 views

data was

This phrase is correct when referring to data as a singular entity.

Use 'data was' when treating data as a singular noun, such as when discussing a single set of data or information.

Examples:

  • The data was analyzed thoroughly.
  • The data was collected from various sources.
  • The data was presented in a clear format.
  • Just wondering whether to use "data" as a singular or plural in a journal article ( i.e. data was collected or data were collected)....would ...
  • The data was analysed after it was collected. Both usages exist today, but often the distinction will be made based on whether you are treating data as a count or  ...
  • Apr 17, 2013 ... Data was/were analyzed using a two-way mixed-design ANOVA. See example: Data were analyzed using a two-way mixed-design ANOVA.
  • ... like information, which takes a singular verb. Sentences such as data was collected over a number of years are now widely accepted in standard English.

Alternatives:

  • The information was
  • The dataset was
  • The statistics were

data were

This phrase is correct when referring to data as a plural entity.

Use 'data were' when treating data as a plural noun, such as when discussing multiple sets of data or pieces of information.

Examples:

  • The data were compared to previous findings.
  • The data were collected over several months.
  • The data were analyzed using advanced techniques.
  • Just wondering whether to use "data" as a singular or plural in a journal article ( i.e. data was collected or data were collected)....would ...
  • Jul 16, 2010 ... Sentences such as data was (as well as data were ) collected over a number of years are now widely accepted in standard English. The official ...
  • Apr 17, 2013 ... 1. Data was/were analyzed using a two-way mixed-design ANOVA. See example : Data were analyzed using a two-way mixed-design ANOVA.
  • The data were analysed after they were collected. rather than. The data was analysed after it was collected. Both usages exist today, but often the distinction will ...

Alternatives:

  • The pieces of data were
  • The sets of data were
  • The information was

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