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 • 2166 views

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

"data was"

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.

Show examples from the web [+]

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

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

"data were"

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.

Show examples from the web [+]

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

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

data was vs data were

"data was"

"data were"

Related Comparisons