datos
/DAH-tohs/
facts
When referring to verifiable information, 'datos' translates to 'facts'.
datos(Noun)
facts
?verifiable information
,details
?specific items of information
figures
?numerical information
📝 In Action
Necesitamos más datos para entender el problema.
A1We need more facts/information to understand the problem.
Todos los datos históricos confirman esta teoría.
B1All the historical information confirms this theory.
💡 Grammar Points
Always Plural
Unlike the English word 'data,' which is often treated as singular (the data is good), the Spanish word 'datos' is always plural, so you must use plural articles and verbs (los datos son).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using it as Singular
Mistake: "El dato es importante."
Correction: Los datos son importantes. (Using the singular 'dato' usually refers to only one specific item, while 'datos' refers to the collection.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Using 'Dato' vs. 'Datos'
Use 'datos' (plural) when talking about a collection of facts or statistics. Use 'dato' (singular) only when referring to one isolated piece of information.
In a digital or scientific context, 'datos' translates to 'data'.
datos(Noun)
data
?digital/scientific information
personal details
?when using 'datos personales'
📝 In Action
Se me acabaron los datos del móvil este mes.
B1I ran out of mobile data this month.
Nuestros datos personales están protegidos por la ley.
A2Our personal details/data are protected by law.
La base de datos del servidor colapsó anoche.
B2The server database crashed last night.
💡 Grammar Points
Using Plural Adjectives
Since 'datos' is masculine and plural, any adjective describing it must also be masculine and plural: 'los datos importantes' (the important data), 'los datos actualizados' (the updated data).
⭐ Usage Tips
Tech Context
When talking about phone or internet usage, 'datos' is the standard term for 'data' or 'data allowance' (e.g., 'Necesito más datos,' I need more data).
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: datos
Question 1 of 2
Which Spanish phrase correctly translates 'The data is confusing'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
If 'datos' means 'data,' how do I say 'a piece of data'?
You can use the singular form, 'un dato.' For example, 'Tengo un dato importante' (I have one important piece of information/data).
Can I use 'información' instead of 'datos'?
Yes, often. 'Información' is singular and uncountable and often interchangeable with the general sense of 'datos.' However, when referring to measured or quantifiable statistics (especially in tech), 'datos' is usually the better choice.