What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
datum
Example
The datum for the experiment was collected from the first trial. [datum: noun]
Example
The geologist recorded the datum for the rock's age. [datum: singular form]
detail
Example
The report included every detail of the incident. [detail: noun]
Example
She detailed the steps needed to complete the project. [detailed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Detail is more commonly used than datum in everyday language. Detail is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while datum is less common and typically used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between datum and detail?
Datum is typically associated with a formal and technical tone, while detail can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
