dato
“dato” means “data” in Spanish (information in digital or technical form).
data, piece of information
Also: fact, information
📝 In Action
Tengo muchos datos sobre este tema.
B1I have a lot of data/information about this topic.
¿Me puedes dar tu número de teléfono? Es un dato importante.
B1Can you give me your phone number? It's an important piece of information.
Los científicos analizaron los datos del experimento.
B2The scientists analyzed the data from the experiment.
Necesito más datos para tomar una decisión.
B1I need more information to make a decision.
Este dato me parece muy interesante.
A2This fact seems very interesting to me.
🔀 Commonly Confused With
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: dato
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'dato' in Spanish?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From Latin 'datum,' meaning 'something given.' In ancient Rome, 'datum' referred to a gift or something granted. The word evolved to mean 'a piece of information' because information is something that is 'given' or provided to you.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'dato' and 'información'?
They are very similar and often interchangeable. 'Información' is a broader, more general word for any kind of knowledge. 'Dato' often implies facts or figures, especially in technical, scientific, or business contexts. In everyday conversation, 'información' is more common.
Is 'dato' masculine or feminine in Spanish?
'Dato' is always masculine. You say 'el dato' (the data/piece of information), never 'la dato.' This is true even when the information is about a woman or something typically feminine.
When should I use 'dato' vs 'datos'?
Use 'dato' (singular) when referring to one specific piece of information: 'Este dato es interesante' (This fact is interesting). Use 'datos' (plural) for multiple facts or in general/technical contexts: 'No tengo datos suficientes' (I don't have enough data). In modern Spanish, the plural 'datos' is actually more common.