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Anonymous Posted 16 years ago
Grammar

Is "these" the correct word to use or should it read "the data seems"?

These data seem to support the hypothesis that young individuals seem to suffer extreme consequences after excessive intake of ecstasy."
  

Top answer

These data seem ... is much more formal. This data seems ...

— CalifJim

  • These data seem ...
  • is much more formal.
  • This data seems ...
  • is less formal.
  • So which to use depends on who you are writing for.
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2 Answers
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These data seem ... is much more formal.
This data seems ... is less formal.

So which to use depends on who you are writing for. Consult the appropriate style manual.

CJ
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The quote is actually from a news article on line. I think that "this data seems" sounds better even though I know that data is often seen as a singular and therefore "these data" would be correct. I see data as plural and think it should never be preceded by s plural.

Thanks for your help as it makes sense as well.
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