data suggest that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "data suggest that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when presenting findings or conclusions drawn from data analysis or research. Example: "The data suggest that there is a significant correlation between exercise and improved mental health."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Historically, the data suggest, that indicates falling support.

The Economist

Recent data suggest that consumption is growing.

The New York Times

But the data suggest that calorie restriction is more powerful.

The New York Times - Magazine

Other data suggest that bedroom television affects a child's schoolwork.

The New York Times - Health

These data suggest that PPF is neuroprotective.

European Journal of Pharmacology

These data suggest that PRR7 inhibits Wnt signaling.

Nature

These data suggest that the engagement of nAChRs alters reepithelialization.

Nature

Indeed, existing data suggest that it is false.

Harvard University

Retail sales and manufacturing data suggest that while activity is picking up, the pace remains modest.

The Guardian - Business

But yesterday's report and other manufacturing data suggest that this rebound has limits.

The New York Times

The polling data suggest that Democrats, determined to beat Mr. Bush, have been acting pragmatically.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "data suggest that", ensure the data you are referring to is clearly presented and relevant to the conclusion you are drawing. This strengthens the credibility of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "data suggest that" to present a definitive conclusion when the data only provides weak or preliminary support. Use qualifiers to reflect the level of certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "data suggest that" functions as an evidential marker, introducing a statement that is inferred or supported by the available data. Ludwig confirms the prevalent use of this structure to convey a logical connection between information and a conclusion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "data suggest that" is a versatile and frequently employed construction used to introduce conclusions drawn from evidence. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread application across diverse fields, particularly in science, news, and academia. While alternatives like "data indicate that" or "evidence suggests that" exist, they offer nuances in emphasis. It's crucial to avoid overstating conclusions and to ensure the supporting data is both relevant and clearly presented. Overall, mastering the appropriate use of "data suggest that" is a valuable skill for effective communication of reasoned inferences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

data indicate that

Replaces "suggest" with "indicate", implying a more direct pointing towards a conclusion.

data imply that

Substitutes "suggest" with "imply", highlighting the indirect nature of the conclusion drawn from the data.

evidence suggests that

Adds emphasis on the "evidence" supporting the suggestion, reinforcing the basis for the conclusion.

findings suggest that

Focuses specifically on research "findings" as the source of the suggestion, suitable for academic or scientific contexts.

analysis suggests that

Emphasizes the role of "analysis" in reaching the suggestion, highlighting the interpretive process.

research indicates that

Similar to "data indicate that", but frames the statement within the context of "research".

studies suggest that

Specifically refers to "studies" as the basis for the suggestion, common in scientific writing.

the evidence points to

Employs a more figurative expression, with the "evidence" 'pointing' to a conclusion.

it appears that

Indicates a less definitive conclusion than "data suggest that", conveying more uncertainty.

it seems that

Similar to "it appears that", suggesting a preliminary or tentative conclusion.

FAQs

How can I use "data suggest that" in a sentence?

Use "data suggest that" to introduce a conclusion or inference that is supported by evidence. For example, "The "data suggest that detention itself creates enough pressure to increase guilty pleas"."

What are some alternatives to "data suggest that"?

You can use alternatives like "data indicate that", "evidence suggests that", or "findings suggest that" depending on the specific context and the strength of the evidence.

Is it more appropriate to say "data suggests that" or "data suggest that"?

"Data" is technically plural, so "data suggest that" is grammatically correct. While "data suggests that" is sometimes used, it is less formal and generally discouraged in academic or scientific writing.

What is the difference between "data suggest that" and "data prove that"?

"Data suggest that" implies that the evidence supports a particular conclusion but doesn't guarantee it. "Data prove that", on the other hand, indicates a much stronger assertion, implying conclusive evidence that leaves no room for doubt. Be cautious about using "prove" unless the evidence is irrefutable.