a frequent source of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a frequent source of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that often provides or contributes to a particular outcome or situation. Example: "Social media can be a frequent source of misinformation, leading to confusion among the public."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They are a frequent source of corrections.

The New York Times

The eighties are a frequent source of inspiration.

The New Yorker

Under Fernández de Kirchner, they were a frequent source of tension.

The Guardian

They said the heating system had been a frequent source of problems.

The New York Times

The bank says some customers use it as a frequent source of credit.

The Economist

(At least we didn't slip up on "loath," a frequent source of confusion).

The New York Times

He described Chinese leaders as "subrational and deeply emotional" on Taiwan, a frequent source of tension with the US.

The Guardian

Data-protection rules are often stricter in Europe than in America, and have been a frequent source of friction.

The New York Times

Now Mr. Holtz-Eakin wins praise from Democrats and is a frequent source of heartburn to Republicans as head of the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.

The New York Times

And because of that, it has become a frequent source of arguments, with them always pushing for more time, while their father and I push for less.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Far greater automatic control of flying has also greatly reduced the scope for pilot error, a frequent source of accidents in the past.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a frequent source of", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being sourced and the frequency is justifiable based on evidence or common knowledge. For example, "Misunderstandings are a frequent source of conflict in interpersonal relationships" is a valid usage.

Common error

Avoid using "a frequent source of" when the source is actually rare or occasional. Overstating the frequency can weaken your argument and undermine your credibility. Be accurate in your assessments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a frequent source of" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. It identifies what something commonly provides or contributes, qualifying the noun that follows "of". As Ludwig highlights, it's used to point out a recurring origin or cause.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a frequent source of" is a versatile phrase used to indicate something that commonly provides or contributes to a particular outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific sources, it maintains a neutral register, suitable for both formal and informal communication. When using the phrase, ensure accuracy in representing the frequency and avoid overstatements. As Ludwig's examples demonstrate, this phrase is a reliable way to identify recurring causes or origins in a clear and concise manner.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a prevalent source of

Swaps "frequent" for "prevalent", indicating widespread occurrence rather than just repetition.

a common origin of

Replaces "source" with "origin", focusing on the beginning or cause of something rather than just its provision.

a regular contributor to

Uses "contributor" instead of "source", highlighting the active role in providing something.

a constant generator of

Replaces "source" with "generator", emphasizing continuous production.

a habitual instigator of

Substitutes "source" with "instigator", suggesting the phrase implies starting or provoking something, often negative.

a noted cause of

Changes "source" to "cause", shifting the focus more directly to causation rather than mere provision.

a repeated instigator of

Uses "repeated" instead of "frequent", focusing on how many times it happens.

a recurrent producer of

Swaps out "frequent source" with "recurrent producer", stressing the cyclical nature of the production.

a steady provider of

Replaces the term with something similar that conveys the role that the subject plays.

an oft-cited reason for

Rephrases the phrase to something that's still understandable.

FAQs

How can I use "a frequent source of" in a sentence?

You can use "a frequent source of" to indicate something that commonly provides or contributes to a particular outcome. For example, "Social media is "a frequent source of" news for many people".

What are some alternatives to saying "a frequent source of"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a common cause of", "a regular contributor to", or "a prevalent source of depending on the specific nuance you want to convey".

Is it better to say "a frequent source of" or "a common source of"?

Both "a frequent source of" and "a common source of" are correct, but they emphasize slightly different aspects. "Frequent" stresses the repetition or regularity, while "common" highlights the widespread nature or ordinariness. The best choice depends on the context.

Can "a frequent source of" be used for both positive and negative outcomes?

Yes, "a frequent source of" can be used for both positive and negative outcomes. For example, "Innovation is "a frequent source of" economic growth" (positive) or "Stress is "a frequent source of" health problems" (negative).