Minimal data

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Minimal data" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a small amount of information or data that is sufficient for a particular purpose or analysis. Example: "In order to proceed with the analysis, we only need minimal data from the initial survey."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Minimal data is available regarding the performance implications of these alternative architectural choices.

International Journal of Medical Informatics

Minimal data exists on in-vivo sciatic nerve motion during straight leg raise (SLR), particularly in symptomatic participants.

Manual Therapy

Minimal data exist to describe health-related quality of life in children with end-stage renal disease (ESRD).

American Journal of Kidney Diseases

Minimal data are available on static or dynamic StO2 used to guide therapy.

Annals of Intensive Care

Minimal data were provided on symptoms, comorbidity, or socioeconomic status.

BMC Cancer

Minimal data regarding the use of cystatin C-based medication dosing have been published.

Critical Care

Minimal data exist regarding patients on renal replacement therapy treated by TAVI.

CKJ: Clinical Kidney Journal

Currently, minimal data exist regarding these features.

Bone

It is almost impossible to determine the quality of sleep from the minimal data the Charge HR shows.

The Guardian - Tech

They can use minimal data to make attributions about the cause of failed goal-directed action.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The non-linear polynomial relationships could also be used to expand on minimal data that exists for other analogous locations.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Minimal data", ensure the context clearly indicates what the data is insufficient for. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid drawing definitive conclusions based solely on "Minimal data". Instead, acknowledge the limitations and suggest further investigation or data collection.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Minimal data" functions primarily as an adjective-noun combination. The adjective "minimal" modifies the noun "data", indicating a small or insufficient quantity of information. Ludwig provides many examples of its use in expressing a lack of adequate information for analysis or decision-making.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "Minimal data" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a small or insufficient amount of information. According to Ludwig, it is especially prevalent in scientific and academic contexts, where highlighting data limitations is essential. While alternatives like "limited data" or "sparse data" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance. When using "Minimal data", clearly indicate the context in which the data is insufficient and avoid overstating conclusions based on limited information. Ludwig's examples demonstrate a wide range of applications, reinforcing its versatility and relevance across various fields. The phrase is effective for setting expectations and emphasizing the need for further data or investigation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Limited data

Focuses on the restricted quantity of data available.

Insufficient data

Directly states that the data is not enough for a purpose.

Sparse data

Emphasizes the lack of density or completeness in the data.

Inadequate data

Focuses on the data being unfit or unsuitable for a specific need.

Scant data

Highlights the inadequacy of the data in terms of amount.

Meagre data

Similar to scant, but with a connotation of poor quality.

Rudimentary data

Suggests that the data is basic and not fully developed.

Basic data

Emphasizes the fundamental nature of the available data.

Restricted data

Indicates that access to the data is limited.

Elementary data

Similar to basic, suggesting a lack of complexity.

FAQs

How can I use "Minimal data" in a research paper?

In academic writing, you might state that "Minimal data" is available on a specific topic, thus justifying the need for further research or exploration. For example, "There is "minimal data" on the long-term effects of the new treatment.".

What phrases are similar to "Minimal data"?

Alternatives to "Minimal data" include "limited data", "sparse data", or "insufficient data". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "Minimal data"?

It is appropriate to use "Minimal data" when you want to emphasize that the amount of available information is small or not comprehensive. This can be relevant in various contexts, such as research, business analysis, or everyday discussions.

Is it better to say "Minimal data is" or "Minimal data are"?

While "data" is technically plural, it's often treated as singular in modern usage, especially in less formal contexts. Therefore, "Minimal data is" is generally acceptable, though "Minimal data are" remains grammatically correct. However, it is much more common to treat it as a singular noun, such as in the sentences collected by Ludwig.