Data vs. Datum: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on October 7, 2023
Data refers to a collection of facts or statistics, while Datum is the singular form, representing a single piece of information.
Key Differences
Data and Datum both pertain to information, particularly in the realm of research, science, and statistics. Data is a term that envelops multiple pieces of information. When you conduct a survey or study, the collective responses and findings you gather are referred to as data.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Conversely, Datum zeroes in on a single point of information. In a vast sea of data, one specific fact or statistic is a datum. While "data" is often used colloquially in singular contexts in modern English, especially in non-technical settings, it's technically a plural term, with "datum" as its singular counterpart.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
The evolution of language and its usage means that in many contexts, especially in informal settings, people use "data" in a singular manner. For example, one might say, "This data is incorrect," even when referring to a single piece of information. However, if being precise, one would say, "This datum is incorrect."
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Another aspect to consider is the field of application. In disciplines where precision is paramount, such as in certain scientific fields, the distinction between data and datum might be adhered to more strictly. However, in everyday usage or in areas like journalism, "data" is commonly employed for both singular and plural references.
Janet White
Oct 07, 2023
Comparison Chart
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Field of Application
General, including informal settings
Technical, precise disciplines
Aimie Carlson
Oct 07, 2023
Example Sentence
"The data show variations in temperature."
"One datum from the research was unexpected."
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
Data and Datum Definitions
Data
Digital information that can be transmitted or processed.
The data transfer was completed without errors.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 07, 2023
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Datum
A single piece of information.
One surprising datum emerged from the poll.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 07, 2023
Data
Facts or figures to be processed; evidence, records, or statistics.
The scientist collected data from multiple experiments.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Datum
A specific value in a set of values.
That datum stands out as an outlier in the dataset.
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
Data
Quantities, characters, or symbols on which operations are performed.
The computer processed the data quickly.
Janet White
Oct 07, 2023
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Data
Information output by a sensing device or organ.
The weather station provides data about temperature and humidity.
Harlon Moss
Oct 07, 2023
Datum
A reference point, level, or surface.
The surveyors established a datum before beginning.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Data
Information translated into a form suitable for processing.
The data can be stored on a hard drive.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Datum
Pl. da·ta (-tə) A fact or proposition used to draw a conclusion or make a decision. See Usage Note at data.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Datum
Pl. da·tums A point, line, or surface used as a reference, as in surveying, mapping, or geology.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Data
Information, especially in a scientific or computational context, or with the implication that it is organized.
The raw information was processed and placed into a database so the data could be accessed more quickly.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Data
(collectively) Recorded observations that are usually presented in a structured format.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Data
(computing) A representation of facts or ideas in a formalized manner capable of being communicated or manipulated by some process.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Datum
(plural: data) (philosophy) A premise from which conclusions are drawn.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Data
Senseid|en|telephony}}(mobile telephony) {{ellipsis of mobile data: digital information transmitted using the cellular telephone network rather than Wi-Fi.
Run out of data
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Datum
(plural: datums) A fixed reference point or set of reference points which precisely define a system of measurement or a coordinate system.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Datum
(plural: datums) (nautical) A floating reference point, or SLDMB, used to evaluate surface currents in a body of water. Often employed by coastal search and rescue.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Data
A collection of facts, observations, or other information related to a particular question or problem; as, the historical data show that the budget deficit is only a small factor in determining interest rates.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Datum
To provide missing data points by using a mathematical model to extrapolate values that are outside the range of a measuring device.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Data
Information, most commonly in the form of a series of binary digits, stored on a physical storage medium for manipulation by a computer program. It is contrasted with the program which is a series of instructions used by the central processing unit of a computer to manipulate the data. In some conputers data and execuatble programs are stored in separate locations.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Datum
Something given or admitted; a fact or principle granted; that upon which an inference or an argument is based; - used chiefly in the plural.
Any writer, therefore, who . . . furnishes us with data sufficient to determine the time in which he wrote.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Data
A collection of facts from which conclusions may be drawn;
Statistical data
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Datum
A single piece of information; a fact; especially a piece of information obtained by observation or experiment; - used mostly in the plural.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Datum
The quantities or relations which are assumed to be given in any problem.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Datum
A point, line, or level surface used as a reference in measuring elevations.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 14, 2023
Datum
A fixed starting point of a scale or operation.
Engineers set a datum for the construction project.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
FAQs
Is "data" singular or plural?
Data is technically plural, but often used singularly in modern English.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Can "datum" refer to a reference point?
Yes, "datum" can refer to a reference or starting point.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Is it correct to say "This data is"?
Colloquially, yes. Formally, one might prefer "These data are."
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
How is "datum" used in geology?
It's used to denote a level surface against which elevations are measured.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Can "data" refer to digital information?
Yes, data can refer to digital information suitable for processing.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 07, 2023
Is it wrong to use "data" as singular?
In informal settings, it's widely accepted. In technical contexts, precision may be preferred.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Why is "data" used in singular contexts?
Language evolves, and "data" as singular has become widely accepted in many contexts.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
How are data and datum related to databases?
Databases store data, and each entry or value could be referred to as a datum.
Harlon Moss
Oct 07, 2023
Do all fields distinguish between data and datum?
Not always, especially in non-technical settings.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Can a datum be subjective?
Yes, if it's based on personal feelings or opinions.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Can "datum" refer to a singular piece of digital data?
Yes, it can refer to a single piece of digital information.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 07, 2023
Can data be qualitative?
Yes, data can be both qualitative (descriptive) and quantitative (numerical).
Harlon Moss
Oct 07, 2023
Can a datum be a reference in cartography?
Yes, it can denote a reference point on a map.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
How is "datum" used in surveying?
It's a reference point or level against which other measurements are taken.
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
What's the origin of "datum"?
It's derived from Latin, meaning "something given."
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Are there other singular forms of plural words like "data"?
Yes, like "media" (singular "medium") and "criteria" (singular "criterion").
Janet White
Oct 07, 2023
What's more common in everyday language: data or datum?
"Data" is far more common in everyday language.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Are data always based on reality?
No, data can represent simulations, predictions, or hypothetical scenarios.
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
