These Data Or This Data

"These Data" vs. "This Data": Navigating the Murky Waters of Data Pluralization

The seemingly simple question of whether to use "these data" or "this data" often trips up even seasoned writers and researchers. This seemingly minor grammatical point actually delves into the heart of how we perceive and discuss data – a crucial element in our increasingly data-driven world. Understanding the nuances of this distinction will not only improve your writing clarity but also enhance your overall comprehension of data analysis and presentation. This article will explore the historical context, grammatical rules, and practical applications of choosing between "these data" and "this data," equipping you with the knowledge to confidently navigate this linguistic challenge.

Introduction: A Grammatical Quandary

The debate surrounding "these data" versus "this data" is a long-standing one, rooted in the evolving understanding of "data" as both a collective noun and a plural noun. Traditionally, "data" was treated as a singular collective noun, similar to "information" or "evidence." In this view, "this data is compelling" would be grammatically correct. However, modern usage increasingly recognizes "data" as a plural noun, referring to individual data points that constitute a larger dataset. This shift in perspective has led to the now widely accepted (though still debated) use of "these data are compelling."

The Historical Perspective: From Singular to Plural

The historical treatment of "data" as a singular noun reflects its Latin origin, "datum," meaning "something given." Early scientific and technical writing often employed "data" as a singular collective, representing a unified body of information. This usage persisted for centuries, leading to ingrained grammatical habits that still influence writing styles today. However, as the volume and complexity of data increased, particularly with the advent of computers and digital information technologies, the plural usage gained traction. The sheer number of individual data points within a dataset made treating "data" as a singular collective feel increasingly unnatural and imprecise.

Grammatical Considerations: The Weight of Collective Nouns

The core of the debate lies in the nature of collective nouns. These nouns represent groups of individuals or things, and their grammatical treatment can vary depending on context and emphasis. Some collective nouns, like "family" or "team," typically take singular verbs when referring to the group as a unit, but plural verbs when referring to the individual members. "Data" sits in this gray area. The increasing preference for "these data are" reflects a focus on the individual data points as the primary subject of discussion, emphasizing the multitude of observations rather than the dataset as a single entity. "This data is" emphasizes the data set as a singular unit; it has a beginning and an end. However, this is not as common as "these data are".

Understanding the Context: Choosing the Right Form

The best approach to choosing between "these data" or "this data" is to carefully consider the context and your intended emphasis. Ask yourself these questions:

• What is the focus? Are you emphasizing the individual data points or the dataset as a whole? If the focus is on the individual elements, "these data" is generally preferred. If the focus is on the data set as one whole unit, then "this data" may be acceptable.
• What kind of data are you discussing? For small, homogenous datasets, "this data" might be appropriate. However, for large, diverse datasets, "these data" more accurately reflects the plural nature of the information.
• What is your audience? In formal academic writing or scientific publications, the plural "these data" is generally preferred for its accuracy and adherence to established conventions. In less formal settings, the singular "this data" might be acceptable, especially if it enhances clarity and readability.

Practical Applications and Examples

Let's illustrate the differences with some examples:

Using "These Data":

• "These data suggest a strong correlation between variables X and Y." (Focus on individual data points supporting the correlation).
• "These data are inconsistent with the existing theory." (Focus on the multiple inconsistencies found in the data set).
• "Analyzing these data required sophisticated statistical techniques." (Emphasis on the multiple pieces of information that made up the work.)

Using "This Data":

• "This data set is incomplete and requires further investigation." (Focus on the dataset as a single entity.)
• "This data strongly supports our hypothesis." (If the entire dataset, rather than the individual points, supports the hypothesis).
• "The visualization of this data reveals a clear trend." (Again, emphasizing the whole dataset as a single entity).

It's important to note that even when using "this data", if you refer to the data points individually later in the paper, you could shift to "these data" to avoid the potential inconsistency.

Common Misconceptions and Pitfalls

One common misconception is that using "these data" is always grammatically correct and superior. While it's becoming increasingly prevalent, and perhaps even preferred in many contexts, it's not universally accepted. The appropriateness of the choice ultimately depends on the context and the writer's intent. Forcing "these data" into every situation where data is mentioned can sound unnatural and overly pedantic.

Another pitfall is inconsistency. Maintaining a consistent grammatical approach throughout a document or presentation is crucial for clarity and professionalism. Switching between "these data" and "this data" without a clear reason can confuse the reader.

Beyond Grammar: Clarity and Style

While grammatical correctness is important, the ultimate goal of writing is clear communication. Sometimes, adhering strictly to the "these data" rule can sacrifice clarity or natural flow. In such cases, it might be better to rephrase the sentence to avoid the grammatical dilemma altogether. For instance, instead of struggling with "this data/these data show...", you could say "the analysis reveals..." or "the results indicate..."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is it ever acceptable to use "this data" in academic writing?

A: While "these data" is generally preferred in academic writing, "this data" might be acceptable in certain contexts, particularly when referring to the dataset as a single, unified entity. However, always prioritize clarity and consistency.

Q: What about other words similar to "data," like "information" or "evidence"?

A: Unlike "data," "information" and "evidence" are generally treated as singular collective nouns. Using "this information is..." or "this evidence suggests..." is grammatically correct.

Q: Should I always use the plural form with all types of data?

A: No, this is not the case. The key is to consider whether the data points are discussed as individuals or as one unit.

Q: Are there any style guides that address this issue?

A: While many style guides don't explicitly address the "these data" vs. "this data" debate in detail, they generally encourage clarity and consistency.

Conclusion: A Matter of Context and Clarity

The choice between "these data" and "this data" is not simply a matter of following a rigid grammatical rule. It's a question of understanding the nuances of collective nouns, appreciating the evolution of language, and ultimately prioritizing clear and effective communication. By carefully considering the context, emphasizing clarity, and maintaining consistency, you can confidently navigate this grammatical challenge and present your data analysis in a professional and compelling manner. Remember, the goal is not just to be grammatically correct, but also to ensure your message is easily understood and resonates with your audience. The best choice will always depend on the specific context and what you intend to communicate.