primary data

/ˈpraɪməri ˈdeɪtə/ · pri.ma.ry.da.ta

noun

Raw, unprocessed data collected directly from sources, such as surveys, experiments, or observations. The researcher used the primary data from the survey to analyze the opinions of the participants.
Original data that has not been altered or modified in any way, often used in data validation and quality control processes. The primary data was used to identify and correct errors in the dataset.

Synonyms

raw data original data primary information primary records primary source data primary source information primary source records

Antonyms

secondary data derived data processed data analyzed data

Did you know? The term 'primary data' is often used in contrast to 'secondary data', which is data that has been processed or analyzed in some way, such as statistics or summaries.

Related terms

data statistics research analysis information records

Written by Lexi Wordsworth, Dictionary Editor 0 lookups Added Aug 10, 2026