a source of friction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of friction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, relationship, or issue that causes tension or conflict between parties. Example: "The differing opinions on project management styles became a source of friction between the team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it became a source of friction.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"That was a source of friction.

The Guardian

Their mere presence has become a source of friction".

The New York Times

Promotion costs, too, are a source of friction.

Harvard Business Review

Her presence in the home became a source of friction.

The New York Times

A French concept becomes a source of friction.

The New York Times

But dinner can also be a source of friction.

The New York Times - Magazine

Russia's relations with Iraq and Iran remain a source of friction.

The New York Times

Israeli checkpoints have been a source of friction throughout the 34 months of Middle East fighting.

The New York Times

A proposed "Gilmore Girls" spinoff was also a source of friction, according to several entertainment executives.

The New York Times - Arts

And deer, geese and other plentiful animals have long been a source of friction.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a source of friction" to describe ongoing or recurring disagreements between individuals, groups, or even countries. It is best used when the disagreement is not necessarily active conflict, but has the potential to become one.

Common error

Avoid using "a source of friction" for minor, easily resolved disagreements. It's more appropriate for situations with a history of conflict or deeply held opposing views.

Linguistic Context

A source of friction functions as a noun phrase that identifies the origin or cause of disagreement or tension. It's used to pinpoint the subject or situation that is producing the conflict, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Academia

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a source of friction" is a versatile phrase used to describe anything causing tension or disagreement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. Its frequent appearance in news, encyclopedias, and business contexts suggests a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, ensure the context involves an ongoing or potentially escalating conflict, rather than a minor disagreement. Consider using alternatives like ""a point of contention"" or ""a cause of discord"" to fine-tune the meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a point of contention

Replaces "source of friction" with a more direct reference to a specific issue causing disagreement.

a cause of discord

Focuses on the disruptive and disharmonious effect of the situation.

a bone of contention

An idiomatic expression that highlights the long-standing nature of the dispute.

a point of conflict

Directly indicates a clash or struggle between opposing sides.

an area of disagreement

Emphasizes the lack of consensus or agreement on a particular matter.

a root of tension

Highlights the underlying anxiety and strain caused by the situation.

an apple of discord

An allusion to a mythological cause of strife and rivalry.

a matter of dispute

Indicates that the issue is being contested or debated.

a breeding ground for conflict

Suggests that the situation is likely to escalate into more significant disagreements.

an irritant

Simplifies the description to a persistent annoyance or provocation.

FAQs

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

You can use "a source of friction" to describe anything that causes tension or disagreement, like "The border dispute has long been "a source of friction" between the two countries".

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

Alternatives include "a point of contention", "a cause of discord", or "a bone of contention", each carrying slightly different connotations of conflict and disagreement.

Is "a source of friction" formal or informal?

"A source of friction" is generally considered neutral to formal and can be used in news articles, academic papers, and business reports. However, be aware of your audience.

What makes something "a source of friction"?

Something becomes "a source of friction" when it consistently leads to disagreement, tension, or conflict between parties. These issues are frequently unresolved and ongoing.