"if the data is right" vs "if the data are right"

Question

"if the data is right" vs "if the data are right"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'If the data is right' is used when referring to data as a singular entity, while 'if the data are right' is used when referring to data as a plural noun. The choice between 'is' and 'are' depends on whether you consider the data as a singular or plural concept.

Last Updated: March 17, 2024

Use 'if the data is right' when treating data as a singular concept, meaning that the data is correct or accurate.

Examples:

If the data is right, we can proceed with the analysis.
I will check if the data is right before making any decisions.

Alternatives:

if the information is correct
if the data is accurate
if the data is valid
if the data is reliable
if the data is true

Use 'if the data are right' when treating data as a plural concept, meaning that the individual pieces of data are correct or accurate.

Examples:

If the data are right, we can trust the results.
I will verify if the data are right before finalizing the report.

Alternatives:

if the data are accurate
if the data are valid
if the data are reliable
if the data are true
if the data are correct

Answer 1

if the data is right

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

Answer 2

if the data are right

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

"if the data is right" vs "if the data are right"

if the data is right

if the data are right

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