a source of dissension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of dissension" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that causes disagreement or conflict among people. Example: "The new policy became a source of dissension among the staff, leading to heated debates during meetings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"What simply happened is that it became a source of dissension and we don't need that right now".

The New York Times

Although a proposal by Shell to drill in the Arctic had been a source of dissension, it was not a major focus of the panel's work.

The New York Times - Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The river was long a source of political dissension in Europe, but this has given way to international concern for ecological safeguards as pollution levels have risen; some 6,000 toxic substances have been identified in Rhine waters.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Another source of dissension was her work to merge Radcliffe more completely into Harvard.

The New York Times

The dissensions consider only what form neurons use glucose as a source of energy: as glucose [ 29, 30] or as lactate [ 31– 31].

BioMed Research International

Be a source of cheer.

WikiHow

A source of artistic inspiration?

WikiHow

Aquitaine remained a centre of dissension.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As well as a lack of interest this also reflected a fear of dissension.

The New Yorker

He represented a practical, reasoning voice in a period of dissension and chaos".

The New Yorker

"There was a lot of dissension in the ranks," the American official told me.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase “a source of dissension”, ensure the context clearly identifies what is causing the disagreement. Providing specific details will strengthen your argument or explanation.

Common error

Avoid vaguely attributing dissension to broad concepts without specifying the concrete actions, policies, or issues involved. Be precise in identifying the origin of the disagreement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of dissension" functions as a noun phrase, specifically identifying the origin or cause of disagreement or conflict. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

10%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a source of dissension" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to identify the origin of disagreement or conflict. Although Ludwig shows the phrase is less common, it is suitable for formal and neutral contexts, like news reporting and academic writing. It pinpoints the 'why' of discord. Related phrases include "a cause of conflict" and "a point of contention", but these options may not carry the same implication of deep-seated division. When employing the phrase, ensure clarity in specifying the source to avoid vagueness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A cause of conflict

This alternative focuses on the conflict aspect, being a more direct and general term.

A point of contention

This phrase highlights a specific issue that causes disagreement, making it more focused.

A reason for discord

This option emphasizes the lack of harmony and agreement.

A root of division

This suggests a deeper, more fundamental separation.

An area of dispute

This refers to a specific matter being argued or debated.

A breeding ground for animosity

This highlights how the phrase can create hostile conditions.

A trigger for friction

This implies that there's a clash or strain being generated.

A catalyst for disagreement

This option indicates that the factor speeds up a disagreement.

A wellspring of antagonism

This portrays an origin point of deeply rooted hostility.

A generator of friction

This suggests an active process or output that causes friction.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a source of dissension" in a sentence?

To effectively use "a source of dissension", clearly identify the specific factor causing disagreement within the context you are describing. For example, "The new company policy quickly became "a source of dissension" among employees."

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

Some alternatives to "a source of dissension" include "a cause of conflict", "a point of contention", or "a reason for discord", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "a source of dissension" formal or informal?

"A source of dissension" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The level of formality largely depends on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of the writing.

What's the difference between "a source of dissension" and "a source of disagreement"?

While both phrases indicate a cause of conflict, "a source of dissension" often implies a deeper, more entrenched disagreement or division than "a source of disagreement". Dissension suggests a stronger sense of discord and potential conflict.