Data is or data are, which one is right? The answer depends on what you mean by “data.” Use data is when you treat data as information as a whole, while data are fits individual facts or measurements, especially in academic and scientific writing. Understanding that small difference makes subject-verb agreement much easier.
Quick Answer:
Data is → information as a whole
The data is stored securely.
Data are → individual facts or measurements
The data are accurate.
Data Is vs. Data Are
| Form | Typical Use | Example |
| Data is | Information as a whole | The data is available. |
| Data are | Individual facts or measurements | The data are consistent. |
What Does “Data” Mean?
Data can refer to facts, figures, observations, measurements, or collected information.
Traditionally, data is the plural of datum, meaning a single piece of information. In modern English, however, data can also function as a mass noun.
When Is “Data” Singular or Plural?
Use data are when the word refers to separate findings, measurements, or observations:
The research data are convincing.
Use data is when the word refers to information as one body:
The survey data is available online.
In academic and scientific writing, data are remains the traditional and widely preferred form.
British vs. American English
Both British and American English use data is and data are. The choice mainly depends on meaning, context, and style.
Common Mistakes
A few simple mistakes can make data and data are/is confusing:
❌ The research data is show a clear pattern.
✅ The research data show a clear pattern.
❌ Several datas were collected.
✅ Several data points were collected.
✅ The data is very useful information for the team.
Pronunciation
Data has two common pronunciations:
- /ˈdeɪtə/
- /ˈdætə/
Both are widely used.
6 Examples
- The data are consistent with the research findings.
- The customer data is stored securely.
- The experimental data are recorded in the report.
- All the player data is saved on the server.
- These data are useful for comparison.
Memory Trick
Individual facts → data are
Information as a whole → data is
Mini Quiz
1. Which form is traditionally preferred in scientific writing?
A. Data is
B. Data are
C. Datas is
D. Datas are
2. Which sentence is correct?
A. The data are reliable.
B. The datas are reliable.
C. The data are shows the result.
D. The datas is reliable.
3. When can “data is” be used naturally?
A. When data means information as a whole
B. Only in British English
C. Only in academic writing
D. Never
4. What is the traditional singular of “data”?
A. Datum
B. Datas
C. Date
D. Datae
5. What mainly determines whether to use “data is” or “data are”?
A. Context and style
B. Spelling
C. Pronunciation
D. Sentence length
Answers: 1-B, 2-A, 3-A, 4-A, 5-A
FAQs
Is data singular or plural?
Traditionally, data is plural and datum is singular. In modern English, data is also commonly used as a mass noun.
Is “data is” correct?
Yes. It is common when data means information treated as one body.
Should I use “data are” in academic writing?
Traditionally, yes. Data are is widely preferred when referring to individual observations or measurements.
Is “datas” correct?
No. Use data, or data points for individual items.
Conclusion
Choosing between data is and data are comes down to what “data” means in the sentence. Use data are for individual facts or measurements, especially in academic writing, and data is when treating data as information as a whole.
The key is simple: match the verb to the meaning and keep your usage consistent.
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Mignon Fogarty is an experienced English grammar and writing expert specializing in grammar, word usage, and clear American English. At EduNexxt, her focus is making grammar simple, accurate, and practical.
William Strunk
Bryan Garne