Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
data are lacking
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
'data are lacking' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic for which the necessary information has not been collected or recorded yet. For example: "We hoped to find more evidence to support our hypothesis, but unfortunately, data are lacking."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Comprehensive data are lacking from Egypt.
Confirmatory in vivo data are lacking.
Science
Comparable data are lacking in kidney transplantation.
Science
Long-term data are lacking in particular.
Science
Recent obstetric and gynecologic malpractice claims data are lacking.
Data are lacking on specific contributions made by added nutrients.
LIMITATION: Data are lacking on real-world effectiveness of new treatments and some prices.
Academia
CAKUT can be caused by monogenic mutations, however, data are lacking on their frequency.
Academia
However, data are lacking for this parameter in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).
Science
This number hasn't changed significantly since 1989, and though hard data are lacking, it probably hasn't changed much since 1970.
News & Media
When field data are lacking, combining expertise with data-based models is recommended.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "data are lacking", clearly indicate the specific area or aspect where information is missing to provide context and clarity.
Common error
Avoid using "data are lacking" without specifying which data are missing. Be specific about the type of data and the context to avoid ambiguity and make your statement more informative.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "data are lacking" functions as an assertion to express a deficiency in available information. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and serves to point out gaps in knowledge within a specific context. Examples show its application in scientific, medical, and general contexts.
Frequent in
Science
85%
Academia
8%
News & Media
3%
Less common in
Formal & Business
2%
Wiki
1%
Encyclopedias
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "data are lacking" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression, primarily in formal and scientific contexts, to indicate a deficiency of information on a particular subject. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. As evidenced by numerous examples, the phrase serves to highlight gaps in knowledge, suggesting a need for further research or investigation. While alternatives like "information is scarce" exist, "data are lacking" specifically emphasizes the absence of empirical evidence. When using this phrase, be sure to specify the exact area or context where data is deficient to avoid ambiguity.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
not enough data exists
Rephrases the original by emphasizing the non-existence of enough data.
information is scarce
Focuses on the scarcity of information rather than explicitly stating data is missing.
evidence is insufficient
Highlights the inadequacy of the evidence available on the topic.
there is a dearth of data
Emphasizes a significant lack of data, using the word 'dearth' for a stronger effect.
relevant statistics are unavailable
Specifies that statistics are not accessible, making it impossible to make conclusions.
current knowledge is limited
Indicates the boundaries of present-day understanding, rather than stating data is missing.
research is incomplete
Stresses that the investigation and the collection of facts has not been finalized.
findings are inconclusive
Highlights that the research cannot provide any certainty.
the picture is incomplete
Metaphorically suggests that not all aspects of a situation are visible or understood.
details are unknown
States plainly that particular aspects aren't specified or clarified.
FAQs
How can I use "data are lacking" in a sentence?
You can use "data are lacking" to indicate that there is not enough information available on a particular topic. For example, "Clinical data are lacking to guide the management of HMPV pneumonias."
What are some alternatives to saying "data are lacking"?
Alternatives to "data are lacking" include phrases like "information is scarce", "evidence is insufficient", or "not enough data exists", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
Is it grammatically correct to say "data is lacking"?
While "data" is technically the plural form of "datum", it's often treated as a mass noun. However, the grammatically correct form is "data are lacking", as "data" is plural. Although, in informal contexts, "data is lacking" might be used but should be avoided in formal writing.
When is it appropriate to use the phrase "data are lacking" in research?
It's appropriate to use "data are lacking" when you've identified a gap in the available research or information about a specific topic. It indicates that further investigation or data collection is needed. For example, "long-term data are lacking in particular."
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested