a continuous source

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a continuous source" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that provides an ongoing or unending supply of something, such as information, energy, or resources. Example: "The river serves as a continuous source of water for the surrounding ecosystem."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Also, POPs that have accumulated in human adipose tissue as a result of previous high exposure have become a continuous source of internal exposure because POPs are slowly but continuously released from adipose tissue to the circulation.

Diabetes Care

"We just need to find her investors and a continuous source of supply.

The New York Times

Protection of civilians has been a continuous source of tension between the UN and NGOs.

The Guardian

Stephon Marbury, a continuous source of locker-room tension, was demoted to the second unit, to minimize his influence.

The New York Times - Sports

She had a terrific figure and knew how to wear clothes, but there was always a deliberate mistake, a continuous source of amusement to us both.

The Guardian

He thereby makes himself a continuous source of discomfort to Mr Prodi, as he seeks to keep himself in the news.

The Economist

Though she will be sorely missed, the example of her life will be a continuous source of inspiration to all who knew her.

The New York Times

But Mrs. Sussman views Ms. Stewart as one of the people responsible for a decline in neighborliness -- her attempts to expand the television portion of her business at her home on Turkey Hill Road were a continuous source of controversy.

The New York Times

To our dear friends Marcy, Jordan and Truly, may the beautiful memories you have of your family be forever etched in your hearts and serve as a continuous source of comfort and guidance.

The New York Times

Even though there is a continuous source of heat within Earth, the extraction rate of the heated fluids and steam can exceed the replenishment rate, and, thus, use of the resource must be managed sustainably.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Subtitled "Contemporary Art From the Collection of the Jewish Museum," this expansive and generally stimulating traveling exhibition starts with the premise that spiritual traditions and new interpretations of traditions form a continuous source of inspiration -- a perpetual well -- for artistic content.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing resources or processes that are consistently available or ongoing, use "a continuous source" to emphasize their uninterrupted nature. For example: 'The library provides a continuous source of information for students'.

Common error

Avoid using "a continuous source" when you simply mean 'a source'. "Continuous" implies an ongoing, uninterrupted supply. If the source isn't inherently ongoing, a simpler term like 'source' is more accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a continuous source" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies something that provides an ongoing and uninterrupted supply of something else. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

58%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a continuous source" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase that describes something providing an uninterrupted supply. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread application. It is most frequently used in scientific and news contexts, conveying reliability and consistency. Remember to reserve its use for truly uninterrupted supplies, and consider related phrases like "a steady supply" or "an ongoing stream" for nuanced situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a steady supply

Emphasizes the reliability and consistency of the provision, rather than its unending nature.

a constant resource

Focuses on the practical value and availability of something that can be drawn upon when needed.

an ongoing stream

Suggests a flow or progression, implying movement and development over time.

an uninterrupted flow

Stresses the lack of breaks or pauses in the delivery or movement of something.

a consistent generator

Emphasizes the active production or creation of something on an ongoing basis.

a perpetual provider

Highlights the role of something as the giver, emphasizing its active contribution.

a sustained origin

Highlights that the source is maintained or prolonged over a period of time.

an endless fount

Uses metaphorical language to describe something providing limitlessly, often inspiration or creativity.

a never-ending wellspring

Implies an abundant and inexhaustible origin or source of something desirable.

a reliable fountainhead

Combines reliability with the notion of being a primary or original source.

FAQs

How can I use "a continuous source" in a sentence?

Use "a continuous source" to describe something that provides an ongoing and uninterrupted supply of something. For example, "The sun is "a continuous source" of energy for the Earth".

What are some alternatives to "a continuous source"?

You can use alternatives like "a steady supply", "an ongoing stream", or "a constant resource" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a continual source" instead of "a continuous source"?

While "continual" implies frequent recurrence, "continuous" suggests an unbroken, uninterrupted flow. Use "a continuous source" when the supply is without interruption and "a continual source" when referring to something that happens repeatedly, but with pauses.

What's the difference between "a continuous source" and "a sustainable source"?

"A continuous source" refers to an uninterrupted supply, whereas "a sustainable source" indicates that the resource can be maintained over time without depletion.