data

Everyday

1. Data is facts, numbers or information collected so they can be studied and used. tree →
2. Data is also information stored and used by a computer. tree →

In the lessons

In maths and science, pupils collect data in surveys and experiments, put it in tables, tally charts and graphs, and find the mean, mode and range. In computing, data is saved, sent and kept safe; personal data (your name, address, photos) should be protected online. Phrases: collect data, data handling, data table, mobile data, personal data.

Examples

• We collected data on our classmates' favourite fruits. tree →
• Put the data in a bar chart. tree →
• The scientist looked carefully at the data. tree →
• Our data shows that plants grew taller in the sun. tree →
• Don't share your personal data with strangers online. tree →
• My phone has run out of mobile data. tree →
• The data was saved on the computer. tree →

Note

Usually used as uncountable with a singular verb (the data is ready), though in science «data» is sometimes plural (the data are). One piece is a «data point». Pronounced DAY-ta or DAH-ta. Data is not the same as an answer: you have to read and interpret it.