a source of discord

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of discord" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that causes disagreement or conflict among people or groups. Example: "The differing opinions on the project became a source of discord within the team, leading to heated discussions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Is that going to be a source of discord, or will it drive some companies to build on Intel?

The Guardian - Tech

Some families discuss these matters openly — a fine thing; others find such discussions a source of discord.

The New York Times - Magazine

But its presence, at first the subject of humor in the town, quickly becomes a source of discord.

The New York Times

Sovereignty over the Indian Ocean island of Mayotte remained a source of discord between the Comoros and France in 2006.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Van Buren acknowledged the issue of slavery as a source of "discord and disaster"; he therefore praised the founders' "forbearance" of it.

The New Yorker

Steven Sinofsky's abrasive style was a source of discord within Microsoft, and he and Steven A. Ballmer, Microsoft's chief executive, agreed that it was time for him to leave, reports Nick Wingfield in The New York Times.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Russia's support for the Syrian regime has so far been a source of deep discord on the UN Security Council.

Independent

The "interests" were not specified but Russia's support for the Syrian regime has so far been a source of deep discord on the UN Security Council.

Independent

That crisis shook the EU's cohesion, and efforts to reform a common asylum policy remain a source of deep discord.

Huffington Post

The oncogenic driver of 8p11-12 amplifications has been a source of substantial discord in the scientific literature for the last 15 years, although in the last few years clarity has finally emerged.

Breast Cancer Research

After days of agonising, David Miliband concluded that his presence in the Shadow Cabinet would provide too great a distraction – and a potential source of discord – for the party and backtracked on a pledge to serve under his brother if defeated in the leadership contest.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a source of discord", ensure the context clearly identifies what is causing the disagreement and who is affected by it. Providing specific examples or explanations will enhance clarity.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "a source of discord" can sound overly formal in casual conversations. Consider using simpler terms like "a point of conflict" or "something we disagree on" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of discord" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies something that initiates or sustains disagreement, conflict, or disharmony. As Ludwig AI indicates, it correctly and effectively describes elements leading to conflict.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a source of discord" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to pinpoint the origin of disagreements and conflicts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's deemed correct and usable in writing. Predominantly found in news, encyclopedic, and scientific contexts, it maintains a neutral to formal register. When aiming for simpler language, consider alternatives such as "a cause of conflict" or "a point of contention". While effective in formal communication, be mindful of its register in casual settings. Using this phrase correctly ensures clarity in identifying and discussing the roots of disharmony.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a cause of conflict

Emphasizes the direct action of initiating a dispute.

a point of contention

Highlights a specific issue that is being argued over.

an area of disagreement

Focuses on the specific subject where opinions diverge.

a bone of contention

Implies a long-standing and often bitter dispute.

a source of friction

Suggests a more subtle, ongoing tension.

a seed of division

Indicates something that could potentially lead to future disagreements.

a root of disharmony

Emphasizes the underlying cause of a lack of agreement.

a trigger for disputes

Highlights something that initiates conflict or arguments.

a wellspring of arguments

Implies that the issue is an abundant and ongoing cause of disagreement.

an origin of strife

Suggests that the issue is the starting point of significant conflict.

FAQs

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

You can use "a source of discord" to describe something that causes disagreement or conflict, such as "The differing interpretations of the contract became "a source of discord" between the parties".

What can I say instead of "a source of discord"?

Alternatives include "a cause of conflict", "a point of contention", or "an area of disagreement", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a source of discord" in formal writing?

Yes, "a source of discord" is suitable for formal writing. It's grammatically correct and conveys a sense of disagreement or conflict in a professional or academic context.

What's the difference between "a source of discord" and "a source of friction"?

"A source of discord" typically implies a more significant disagreement or conflict, while "a source of friction" suggests a more subtle, ongoing tension or minor irritations.