a source of discomfort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of discomfort" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that causes unease or pain, whether physical or emotional. Example: "The loud noise from the construction site became a source of discomfort for the residents living nearby."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

So his politics can therefore be unpredictable, which is a source of discomfort for the world.

The Guardian

Soon, however, the chaplain's presence became a source of discomfort for some of his colleagues, most notably Capt.

The New York Times

The fact that its dollar deficit seems to dwarf that of other banks may also be a source of discomfort.

The New York Times

But as welcome as such profits are to the banks, they may also become a source of discomfort.

The New York Times

In this context, perceived choice over a source of discomfort is another important parameter for people in open spaces.

Building and Environment

But for others, unclad bodies are an affront to civility, a source of discomfort and a potentially dangerous attraction for pedophiles.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

Even if there may still be some debate about the lasting health effects of short-term exposure on nonsmokers, there is little doubt that secondhand smoke can be a source of irritation and discomfort for many.

The New York Times

This seems to be a source of much discomfort for the men in Sales' piece.

The Guardian - Opinion

But Vichy remains a presence, here, and a source of continuing discomfort.

The New York Times

Tipping seemed like a natural, and inevitable, system for compensating service employees, and for Americans travelling abroad its absence was a source of creeping discomfort.

The New Yorker

Social exclusion — the realization you have become cut off from either your circle of acquaintances, or the wider society — can be a source of intense discomfort.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a source of discomfort", ensure the context clearly indicates whether the discomfort is physical, emotional, or psychological. Be specific to enhance clarity.

Common error

While grammatically sound, relying too heavily on "a source of discomfort" can make your writing monotonous. Vary your language by using synonyms like "a cause of unease" or "a point of irritation" depending on the intended nuance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of discomfort" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies the origin or cause of unease or pain, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

4%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a source of discomfort" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to identify something causing unease or pain, whether physical, emotional, or psychological. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage across various contexts. While frequently found in News & Media and Science, it maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. To avoid monotony, writers should consider synonyms like "a cause of unease" or "a point of irritation", tailoring their choice to the specific nuance they intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a cause of unease

Focuses more on mental anxiety rather than physical discomfort.

a reason for concern

Shifts the focus to potential negative outcomes or worries.

an origin of distress

Emphasizes the negative emotional impact.

a trigger for anxiety

Highlights the role of the discomfort as a stimulus for anxiety.

a point of irritation

Implies a lesser degree of discomfort, more akin to annoyance.

a vexation

A more formal and concise term for something that causes annoyance or worry.

a nuisance

Suggests a minor inconvenience or annoyance.

a problem

A general term indicating something that needs to be resolved, which may or may not cause discomfort.

an inconvenience

Emphasizes the disruption or trouble caused, rather than the feeling of discomfort itself.

a minor setback

Downplays the significance, suggesting a temporary delay or obstacle.

FAQs

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

You can use "a source of discomfort" to describe anything causing unease or pain. For example, "The constant noise was "a source of discomfort" to the residents."

What are some alternatives to "a source of discomfort"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a cause of unease", "a reason for concern", or "a point of irritation".

Is "a source of discomfort" formal or informal?

"A source of discomfort" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though more formal writing might benefit from stronger or more precise synonyms.

What is the difference between "a source of discomfort" and "a source of distress"?

"A source of discomfort" generally implies a milder form of unease, while "a source of distress" suggests a more significant emotional or psychological burden.