scant data

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "scant data" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe a small or insufficient amount of information or evidence. Example: Despite conducting extensive research, the scientist was only able to gather scant data on the rare species. In this sentence, "scant data" is used to describe the limited amount of information collected by the scientist.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some areas with scant data are grouped with others.

The New York Times

Scant data exists on how often accidents happen, and why.

The New York Times - Sports

However, there are scant data comparing these 2 methods.

Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

However, scant data are available regarding PFD in obese individuals.

Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases

Currently, though, in many areas of medicine there is scant data that compare competing strategies.

The New York Times - Health

But the scant data available until now hasn't borne this out.

The Washington Post

Scant data on placental lymphatic vessels have pointed to the absence of lymphatic circulation.

Placenta

Vulvodynia is a chronic pain syndrome of unknown origin with scant data on frequency.

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Although numerous studies have been promising, there are scant data from randomized clinical trials.

The New York Times

Determining the percentage of each commodity being stockpiled is difficult, especially in China, where scant data are released.

The New York Times

The scant data from the historic Mariner-10 flybys indicate that the Hermean and terrestrial magnetospheres have many similarities.

Advances in Space Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "scant data", clearly indicate the specific area or aspect where the data is lacking to provide context for the deficiency. For example, "There is scant data on the long-term effects of this treatment."

Common error

Avoid drawing definitive conclusions or making strong claims based solely on "scant data". Instead, acknowledge the limitations and suggest areas for further investigation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "scant data" functions as a noun phrase modified by the adjective "scant". It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, indicating a lack of sufficient information. This is supported by Ludwig, which confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

57%

News & Media

39%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "scant data" is a frequently used phrase, especially in scientific and journalistic contexts, to denote a limited amount of information available on a specific subject. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly employed to emphasize a deficiency in available evidence. When using "scant data", it is vital to avoid overstating conclusions and instead acknowledge limitations and advocate for further research. Alternatives like "limited data" or "sparse data" can be used to convey similar meanings, depending on the specific nuance desired. The high frequency and consistent usage in reputable sources confirm the phrase's validity and usefulness in formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Limited data

Emphasizes the restricted quantity of data available.

Sparse data

Highlights the scattered and infrequent nature of the data.

Minimal data

Focuses on the bare minimum amount of data present.

Inadequate data

Stresses the insufficiency of the data for a particular purpose.

Insufficient data

Similar to inadequate, but with a slightly stronger emphasis on the lack.

Meager data

Implies the data is not only small in quantity but also poor in quality.

Thin data

Evokes the idea of data being spread too thinly to be reliable.

Poor data

Highlights deficiencies in the data's reliability or quality.

Little data

A more informal way of expressing a small amount of data.

Few data

Indicates a small number of data points or instances.

FAQs

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

You can use "scant data" to indicate that there is a limited amount of information available on a particular topic. For example: "There is "scant data" regarding the effectiveness of this new therapy."

What are some alternatives to saying "scant data"?

Alternatives to "scant data" include "limited data", "sparse data", "minimal data", or "insufficient data". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "scant data" or "limited data"?

Both "scant data" and "limited data" are correct. "Scant" emphasizes a deficiency or lack, while "limited" simply indicates a restriction in quantity. Choose the term that best reflects the specific context.

What does it mean when someone says there is "scant data" on a topic?

When someone says there is "scant data" on a topic, it means there is very little information available. This could be due to a lack of research, difficulty in gathering data, or other factors that limit the amount of evidence that can be used to draw conclusions.