falsify data

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "falsify data" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts involving research, statistics, or any situation where data integrity is important and someone is intentionally altering or misrepresenting information. Example: "The investigation revealed that the researcher chose to falsify data in order to support their hypothesis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

"I feel I have an ethical responsibility not to falsify data," he said.

The New York Times

"Jezierski had to falsify data to create reports that matched Ledford's directions," the plea agreement says.

The Washington Post

"Jezierski had to falsify data to create reports that matched Ledford's directions," the plea agreement continues, adding that Ledford was aware the reports were based on false data.

The Washington Post

At another internationally renowned laboratory, the pressure was reportedly so extreme people were driven to falsify data rather than incur the wrath of the director.

The Guardian

Mr Karpeles is accused of having accessed the exchange's computer system in February 2013 to falsify data on its outstanding balance.

Independent

The company's troubles with Eprex were compounded last spring when J.& J. learned that the Food and Drug Administration was reviewing accusations by a former employee, Hector Arce, that he had been told to falsify data to conceal manufacturing lapses.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Officials falsified data to meet procurement quotas.

Independent

Falsifying data in any work product.

Yale University

If someone is falsifying data they usually get found out.

The Guardian

Officials say the company falsified data and used expired ingredients.

The New York Times

Others simply fabricate data – Dutch psychologist Diederik Stapel shockingly falsified data from more than 50 studies.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing research or official reports, use "falsify data" to emphasize unethical or illegal manipulation of information intended to deceive.

Common error

Avoid using "falsify data" when the intention is simply to correct errors or update information. "Correct data" or "revise data" is more appropriate in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "falsify data" functions as a verb phrase indicating the act of intentionally altering or misrepresenting information. It highlights an unethical or illegal manipulation. According to Ludwig, it is correct and usable in written English. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Science & Research

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "falsify data" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression that describes the intentional alteration or misrepresentation of data. According to Ludwig, its high frequency across news, scientific, and research contexts underscores its relevance in discussions about ethics, fraud, and accuracy in various fields. While alternatives like "manipulate data" or "fabricate data" exist, "falsify data" specifically emphasizes the deceptive aspect of the action. As such, understanding its usage and implications is crucial for clear and precise communication in both formal and informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

forge data

Implies creating false data from scratch, differing slightly in that it emphasizes the creation of something entirely new and untrue.

manipulate data

Refers to altering data, potentially without necessarily making it entirely false, but rather skewing it for a specific purpose.

fabricate data

Focuses on inventing or creating data that does not exist, highlighting the artificial nature of the data.

falsify records

Specifically targets official records, indicating a formal or official context where the data is being misrepresented.

distort data

Implies twisting or changing data to create a misleading impression, emphasizing the alteration of existing data.

fake data

A more informal way to describe data that is not genuine or authentic, suitable for less formal contexts.

rig data

Suggests manipulating data in a way that unfairly influences results or outcomes, implying a deliberate and often unethical intent.

misrepresent data

Focuses on presenting data in a false or misleading way, highlighting the deceptive aspect of the action.

tamper with data

Implies interfering with data to alter it, often suggesting unauthorized or malicious intent.

alter data

A general term for making changes to data, without necessarily implying malicious intent, but suggesting a modification that affects its accuracy.

FAQs

How can I use "falsify data" in a sentence?

You can use "falsify data" to describe the act of intentionally altering or misrepresenting information, especially in research or official reports. For instance, "The scientist was accused of choosing to falsify data to support his hypothesis."

What are some alternatives to "falsify data"?

Alternatives include "manipulate data", "fabricate data", or "distort data", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "falsify data" in formal writing?

Yes, "falsify data" is appropriate in formal writing when describing the intentional misrepresentation of information. Its usage is common in news, academic papers, and official reports.

What's the difference between "falsify data" and "misrepresent data"?

"Falsify data" implies a more direct alteration or creation of false information, while "misrepresent data" suggests presenting existing data in a misleading way, potentially without directly changing the data itself.