English Reference

Word

data

Phoneticsda·ta, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈdætə/

UK/dˈeɪtɐ/

Definitions

01facts and statistics

A2 · Elementary Uncountable noun Academic

n. information like facts, numbers, or measurements that you use to understand something or make a choice.

n. information, especially in a structured or numerical form, used as a basis for reasoning, calculation, or evidence in research.

“The scientists collected data about the weather for ten years.”

“The research team spent months analyzing the raw data before publishing their findings in a peer-reviewed journal.”

Usage

In academic writing, 'data' is sometimes treated as a plural noun ('the data show'), but in general use, it is almost always uncountable ('the data shows').

Pitfall

The datas show that prices are rising.

The data shows that prices are rising.

In modern English, 'data' is usually uncountable. Do not add an 's' to make it plural.

Teaching tip

While technically the plural of 'datum', 'datum' is rarely used today. Treat it as a mass noun like 'information' for most learners.

Synonyms

informationstatisticsevidencefacts

02computing information

A2 · Elementary Uncountable noun Computing Technical

n. information that is stored, processed, or sent by a computer.

n. a representation of information (symbols, quantities, or media) processed or stored by a computer system.

“It took a long time to transfer all the data to my new laptop.”

“The system is designed to encrypt sensitive data before it is transmitted across the public network to ensure user privacy.”

Synonyms

digital informationinput

03mobile internet

B1 · Intermediate Uncountable noun Computing Informal

n. the internet connection you use on your phone when you are not using Wi-Fi.

n. digital information transmitted via a cellular network rather than a local wireless connection.

“I cannot watch videos right now because I am low on data.”

“Many travelers purchase local SIM cards to avoid expensive roaming charges for data while navigating foreign cities.”

Synonyms

mobile datacellular data

Antonyms

Wi-Fi

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “data” in context.

01. access data 02. acquire data 03. actual data 04. additional data 05. aggregate data 06. analyse data 07. census data 08. collect data 09. data allow 10. data appear 11. data collect 12. data confirm

Word family

NOUN

data(A2)

Related words

data managerdata miningdata modelingdata sourcedata structuredata visualizationdata warehouseencoderextrapolateextrapolatedknowledgepaucity

Domain

Computing

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Very common
Level
A2 · ElementaryOxford
Updated

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English Reference