>Massage the data - This phrase is used a lot the UK,  we take this to mean
>*change the data to suit ourselves or make the data pleasing to the public or
>whoever is paying us to do this*
>we would never read it any other way than the figures have been fiddled!  So
>I am afraid Kathy D., that things have become a bit skewed this side of the
>pond!
>kind regards,Helen Woodman, UK.


Helen is right  - it is always used ironically here (at least whenever I
have heard the phrase). Truly, people would looke upon you amazed if you
told them you had massaged your data - they would say to themselves  'and
she's admitting it?????"

Heather Welford Neil
NCT bfc Newcastle upon Tyne UK

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