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
notional data
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
'notional data' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to estimates or hypothetical data, such as in the sentence "We are using notional data to estimate how many people this project will help."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
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
2 human-written examples
Even in the best of scenarios, countries only have laws focused around some notional data element — like a right to healthcare or financial privacy.
News & Media
In spite of these limitations, the findings of this study are significant because notional data representing the entire Korean adolescent population were investigated for the first time, and the discordance between perception of body shape and actual weight was determined by examining both overestimation and underestimation.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
58 human-written examples
Imagine developing a decision tree for classifying a notional influenza data set.
Science
Notional system performance data is generated using the logistic function, providing an experimental platform for a parametric comparison of the proposed resilience metric with an integration-based metric.
The results of the one-way sensitivity analyses for FSIG and gFOBT were similar to those for FIT (i.e., the same parameters had the greatest impact, and in all instances, the ICERs for screening vs no screening remained very much below the notional cost-effectiveness threshold (data not shown)).
Science
The distribution of the measured data within the notional maximal flight performance envelope gives an indication of behavioural preference and physiological or anatomical constraint.
Science
We estimated notional costs of care, from Hospital Episode Statistics data, by applying the set of mandatory and indicative tariffs used in England for the reimbursement of inpatient and outpatient care (2008-09 payment by results tariffs).
Science
There is a clear need for specific privacy laws to supplement the notional protections offered by human rights and data protection law.
News & Media
To make this so, viewing transformations should be expressed with respect to a notional display device in which the transformed data are rendered as black when 0 and maximally bright when 1, with a prescribed display gamma function for that, a gamma value of one-third would seem appropriate since it correlates rather well with human perception.
Science
All the data were fitted to a notional 28 days by the following procedure.
Science
The surface of this notional plate is locally pulled towards each data point by the numerical equivalent of a spring whose individual stiffness is inversely proportional to data variance (Inoue 1986).
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "notional data", clearly state the assumptions and limitations behind the data. Transparency enhances credibility.
Common error
Avoid presenting "notional data" as factual or definitive. Always distinguish it from empirical data to prevent misinterpretations.
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "notional data" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "notional" modifies the noun "data". It describes data that is theoretical, hypothetical, or estimated, rather than actual or empirical. As Ludwig AI explains, this data serves as a model or illustration.
Frequent in
Science
60%
News & Media
30%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "notional data" refers to hypothetical or estimated data used for modeling, illustration, or analysis when real-world data is unavailable or impractical. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, especially in scientific, news, and formal contexts. When using "notional data", transparency regarding its assumptions and limitations is essential. Be sure to differentiate it clearly from empirical data to avoid misinterpretations. This guidance helps ensure clarity and credibility in your writing. Consider alternatives like "hypothetical data" or "theoretical data" depending on the specific context.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
hypothetical data
Focuses on data based on assumptions or hypotheses, rather than actual measurements.
theoretical data
Emphasizes data derived from theory and models, often used in simulations and projections.
estimated data
Highlights data that has been approximated or calculated, rather than directly measured.
projected data
Implies data that forecasts future trends or outcomes based on current information.
simulated data
Refers to data generated by computer simulations to mimic real-world scenarios.
model data
Data that is an abstraction or a simplified representation of the reality.
assumed data
Indicates data that is taken for granted without proof or verification.
illustrative data
Data that exemplify how a process may occur, not necessarily reflect the actual values.
indicative data
Highlights data that serves as a sign or indication of something, not necessarily a precise measurement.
benchmark data
Refers to data used as a standard or point of reference for comparison.
FAQs
How can I use "notional data" in a research paper?
When presenting "notional data" in research, clearly define its purpose, such as illustrating a concept or simulating a scenario. Always differentiate it from empirical findings and acknowledge any limitations. Make sure to cite well known researchers that are using "notional data".
What is the difference between "notional data" and "real-world data"?
"Notional data" is hypothetical or estimated, used for modeling or illustrative purposes, while "real-world data" comes from actual observations and measurements.
What are some alternatives to the phrase "notional data"?
Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "hypothetical data", "theoretical data", or "estimated data".
In which contexts is it appropriate to use "notional data"?
"Notional data" is suitable for simulations, conceptual models, and thought experiments where actual data is unavailable or impractical to obtain. This is especially useful when building proofs-of-concept or prototypes.
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
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested