we obtained data

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we obtained data" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the collection or acquisition of information in a research or analytical context. Example: "In our study, we obtained data from various sources to ensure the accuracy of our findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Following past research, we obtained data on a firm's reputation using Fortune's most admired companies ranking.

Harvard Business Review

Following contact with the original authors, we obtained data for one study33.

Nature

In our research at the food-manufacturing and agribusiness company, we obtained data on the financial bonuses employees received annually based on their performance.

Harvard Business Review

We obtained data on 276 cities in 26 countries for the years 2000, 2005, and 2008.

Journal of Cleaner Production

We obtained data on 92% of the patients, from nearly 53,000 health-related encounters.

Duke University

We obtained data on oral contraceptive use, childbearing, breastfeeding, gynecologic surgical procedures, and other reproductive factors on each woman.

Duke University

We obtained data on the prevalence of both childhood and adult asthma.

Huffington Post

To come to this determination, we obtained data collected by LADOT from induction loops — or traffic sensors — embedded in the asphalt throughout Los Angeles County.

Los Angeles Times

We obtained data from The AIDS Support Organization (TASO) in Uganda.

Plosone

Following the screening process, we obtained data on 56 infants for further analysis.

Plosone

In total, we obtained data from 242 male Northern Wheatears, Oenanthe oenanthe.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing research papers or reports, be specific about where "we obtained data" from. Mentioning the specific databases, surveys, or methods used adds credibility and transparency to your work.

Common error

Avoid simply stating "we obtained data" without providing context. Always specify the source and method used to collect the data to ensure clarity and replicability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we obtained data" functions as a declarative statement indicating that information has been acquired. Ludwig AI shows it is commonly used in research and reports to introduce the data collection phase. It sets the stage for subsequent analysis and findings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

72%

News & Media

15%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we obtained data" is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate that information has been acquired, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is most frequently used in scientific and academic writing to introduce the methodology or data collection phase of a study. When using this phrase, it is best practice to provide specific details about the data sources and methods used. While alternatives like "we collected data" or "we gathered data" exist, "we obtained data" remains a clear and widely accepted choice for formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we acquired data

Replaces "obtained" with "acquired", emphasizing the act of gaining possession of the data.

we collected data

Uses "collected" instead of "obtained", highlighting the process of gathering data from various sources.

we gathered data

Substitutes "obtained" with "gathered", suggesting a more comprehensive accumulation of data.

we sourced data

Replaces "obtained" with "sourced", emphasizing the origin or supply of the data.

data was obtained

Passive voice construction emphasizing the data rather than the actor.

we extracted data

Focuses on the process of retrieving data from a larger source.

we compiled data

Highlights the act of assembling data from different sources into a structured format.

we accessed data

Emphasizes the act of gaining entry to the data.

we secured data

Focuses on the process of ensuring the data's safety and accessibility.

data were procured

Formal alternative using passive voice and "procured" to indicate acquisition.

FAQs

What does "we obtained data" mean?

The phrase "we obtained data" means that the speaker or writer has acquired or collected information, often for research or analysis purposes. It implies a process of gathering data from various sources.

What can I say instead of "we obtained data"?

You can use alternatives like "we collected data", "we gathered data", or "we acquired data" depending on the context.

How is "we obtained data" typically used in a research paper?

In research papers, "we obtained data" is often followed by a description of the data sources, such as specific databases, surveys, or experimental methods. It sets the stage for presenting the results and analysis.

Is it better to use active or passive voice when describing how data was obtained?

While both active (e.g., "we obtained data") and passive (e.g., "data was obtained") voice are acceptable, active voice can be more direct and engaging. The choice depends on the desired emphasis and style of writing.