Crunch the numbers

Meaning

Analyze data thoroughly.

Usage

Used when careful quantification is required.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Metaphor for forcing hard data through analytical processes.

Popularized when computers began handling large data sets.