a source of clarification

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of clarification" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that provides clarity or understanding on a particular topic or issue. Example: "The report served as a source of clarification regarding the new policy changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

By failing to address them more overtly, family members struggle when looking to one another as a source of clarification, and can instead find family to be a source of anxiety and confusion.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Facial and body language are an important source of clarification and humanizes the interaction, while technology tends to distance us.

WikiHow

Because letters lack the contextual accompaniments -- sound of voice, tone, gesture, facial expression" -- that, in spoken conversation, are a source of obfuscation and clarification, Simmel argued, letters can be more easily misinterpreted than speech.

The New York Times - Magazine

But for the majority of postdocs, its most important effect may well be a clarification of their prospects for landing an academic job, a source of valuable--if not necessarily welcome--professional feedback.

Science Magazine

What a source of power!

The New York Times

A Source of Enduring Confusion.

The New York Times

Be a source of cheer.

WikiHow

A source of artistic inspiration?

WikiHow

Find a source of motivation.

WikiHow

Locate a source of Water.

WikiHow

Find a source of straw.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a source of clarification" when you want to emphasize that something actively provides clarity and helps to resolve confusion.

Common error

Avoid using "a source of clarification" when describing something that merely provides information without actively resolving ambiguity or confusion. For instance, using it to describe a simple data point would be inaccurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of clarification" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies something that provides clarity or removes ambiguity. The examples provided by Ludwig show it used in context where understanding is needed.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a source of clarification" is a noun phrase used to describe something that provides clarity and reduces ambiguity. While grammatically correct and understandable, its usage is relatively rare. According to Ludwig, the phrase is best used in neutral to formal contexts, such as news articles, academic papers, or business documents. When using the phrase, ensure that the described item genuinely helps resolve confusion or provide insight. Alternatives like ""a clarifying resource"" or ""an aid to understanding"" can offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clarifying resource

Replaces 'source' with 'resource', implying a thing that provides clarification.

an aid to understanding

Focuses on the assistance provided in achieving understanding.

a means of elucidation

Uses a more formal term, 'elucidation', for clarification.

a point of explication

Highlights a specific detail that makes something clearer.

a vehicle for comprehension

Emphasizes how something drives or enables comprehension.

a key to clarity

Implies that something is essential for achieving clarity.

a way to make things clear

A more direct and simplified way to express the idea.

a method for demystification

Suggests removing mystery or confusion.

a beacon of insight

Metaphorically represents something as a guiding light for understanding.

a facilitator of understanding

Highlights the role of enabling or easing comprehension.

FAQs

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

You can use "a source of clarification" to describe anything that helps to make something clear or understandable. For example: "The detailed report served as "a source of clarification" regarding the company's new policies."

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

Alternatives include "a clarifying resource", "an aid to understanding", or "a means of elucidation", depending on the level of formality and specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a source of clarification" or "a clarifying source"?

"A source of clarification" emphasizes the function, while "a clarifying source" emphasizes the nature of the source itself. The better choice depends on whether you want to highlight the role or the attribute.

What's the difference between "a source of clarification" and "a point of clarification"?

"A source of clarification" typically refers to something that provides ongoing or general clarity. "A point of clarification" refers to a specific instance or detail that requires clarification. For example, "The lecture was "a source of clarification" on the topic," versus "The speaker offered "a point of clarification" about the data."