based on limited data

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "based on limited data" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing conclusions, decisions, or analyses that rely on insufficient or incomplete information. Example: "The findings of this study are based on limited data, which may affect the overall reliability of the results."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, the PK/PD understanding is often limited by models based on limited data and lack of incorporation of biology.

CPT: Pharmacometrics and Systems Pharmacology

Being based on limited data, the estimated equivalence limits in step L are always uncertain.

BMC Biotechnology

The chronograph is based on limited data, but there is only one patient with open-angle glaucoma in the 3 years before new dithranol prescriptions (see Fig. 7).

Drug Safety

He called the study "reasonably plausible, though based on limited data".

The New York Times

The initial estimates of quarterly G.D.P. growth are based on limited data.

The New Yorker

Howarth acknowledged, behind the headlines, that his conclusions were based on limited data.

The New York Times

Another option is the antiviral medication Tamiflu, which, based on limited data, may be effective in preventing or treating bird flu, according to the C.D.C.

The New York Times

That figure, however, is most likely inflated because it is based on limited data that does not account for, among other things, immigration status.

The New York Times

Interviews in general pose a particular challenge when it comes to predictive validity — that is, the ability to determine someone's future performance based on limited data.

The New Yorker

The authors acknowledge that their conclusions were based on limited data, that only three of the studies were conducted in developing countries, and that methodologies varied.

The New York Times - Health

However, recommendations are based on limited data.

The American Journal of Medicine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "based on limited data", clearly acknowledge the limitations of your analysis or conclusions. This adds transparency and manages expectations.

Common error

Avoid making definitive claims or strong assertions when your analysis is "based on limited data". Instead, use cautious language and acknowledge the uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "based on limited data" functions as an adjectival phrase that modifies a noun (e.g., study, conclusion, recommendation). It indicates that something is derived from or reliant on a dataset that is not comprehensive or complete. Ludwig examples confirm this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

65%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "based on limited data" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, particularly in scientific and news contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to acknowledge the uncertainty and constraints arising from incomplete information. When employing this phrase, transparency is key. Always clarify the limitations inherent in your analysis and temper strong assertions. While versatile, it's crucial to consider more precise alternatives like "derived from incomplete evidence" for enhanced clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

based on scant information

Replaces "limited data" with "scant information", emphasizing the lack of detail.

derived from incomplete evidence

Substitutes "based on" with "derived from" and "limited data" with "incomplete evidence", highlighting the evidentiary aspect.

inferred from sparse data

Uses "inferred from" instead of "based on" and "sparse data" instead of "limited data", suggesting a more analytical approach to the insufficient information.

conclusions from a restricted dataset

Replaces "based on limited data" with "conclusions from a restricted dataset", emphasizing the dataset aspect of limited information.

estimates based on partial data

Focuses on "estimates" rather than a general statement, using "partial data" to describe the limitation.

drawing inferences from fragmentary data

Highlights the inferential process based on incomplete "fragmentary data".

reasoning from a small sample size

Emphasizes the statistical aspect of "small sample size" as the limiting factor.

assessments under data constraints

Focuses on the constraints imposed by the data limitations on making assessments.

tentative findings due to data paucity

Emphasizes the tentative nature of the findings due to the lack of data described as "data paucity".

preliminary results owing to restricted information

Highlights the preliminary nature of results due to "restricted information".

FAQs

How can I acknowledge uncertainty when my analysis is based on limited data?

Use qualifiers like "suggests", "indicates", "may", or "appears to" to show that your conclusions are tentative. Phrases such as "preliminary findings" or "tentative results" can also be helpful.

What phrases are similar to "based on limited data"?

Similar phrases include "based on scant information", "derived from incomplete evidence", and "inferred from sparse data". Choose the phrase that best fits the specific context.

Is it acceptable to make recommendations based on limited data?

Yes, but it's essential to clearly state that the recommendations are based on limited data and may need to be revised as more information becomes available. Be sure to provide a solid rationale for your recommendations, even with the limited data.

What are the implications of basing decisions on limited data?

Decisions "based on limited data" carry a higher risk of being incorrect or ineffective. Consider the potential consequences and explore ways to gather more data or mitigate the risks.