a source of relief

USAGE SUMMARY

"a source of relief" is a perfectly valid phrase in written English.
You can use it any time you need to describe something that provides comfort or relief. For example, "When the doctor gave me the good news, it was a source of relief."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Perhaps acceptance of ageing itself is a source of relief.

The Economist

Each wicket was not as much cause for celebration as a source of relief.

The Guardian - Sport

You might think that the GNP's embarrassment would be a source of relief to Mr Roh.

The Economist

Comedy has long been a source of relief for sufferers of post-traumatic stress disorder and for the terminally ill.

The New Yorker

That the carpet and furniture may have been paid for by private donations rather than public funds should not be a source of relief, but of shame.

The New York Times

Stern, sure — but also a source of relief, a welcome bit of bossiness for diners accustomed to juggling small plates that arrive on the kitchen's idiosyncratic schedule.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Some believe the EU could be a source of economic relief.

The Guardian

But the results will be a source of huge relief worldwide".

The Guardian

All in all, the fact that the referendum has finally arrived is a source of immense relief.

The New Yorker

That deal supposedly allowed the economy to avoid going over the "fiscal cliff," and its aversion was a source of much relief in Washington and on Wall Street.

The New Yorker

"The results will be a source of huge relief to the world at large, which was waiting for a decision," President Nicolas Sarkozy of France said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a source of relief", ensure the context clearly identifies what is being alleviated. For example, specify "a source of relief from stress" or "a source of relief from financial burden".

Common error

Avoid vague references when using the phrase. Always clarify what exactly provides the relief to ensure the meaning is clear. Saying something is "a source of relief" without specifying what it alleviates can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of relief" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI validates this through numerous examples where it identifies the phrase describing something that provides alleviation or comfort.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

12%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a source of relief" is a common noun phrase used to describe something that alleviates stress, pain, or burden. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely accepted. It's frequently found in news and media, but it's also applicable in science and other contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what the relief is from. Alternative phrases include "a means of comfort" or "a cause for reassurance", providing nuanced ways to express similar meanings. By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate usage, you can effectively incorporate "a source of relief" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a means of comfort

Focuses on the comfort provided.

a comfort provider

Highlights that something provides the comfort.

a cause for reassurance

Highlights the aspect of feeling secure or confident again.

a respite from difficulties

Highlights the aspect of providing a break.

a wellspring of alleviation

Emphasizes the continuous flow or abundance of relief.

a support during hardships

Focuses on the supportive nature.

a harbor of ease

Uses a metaphorical expression to indicate a place or state of comfort.

a balm for the soul

Implies a soothing and restorative effect on one's emotional state.

a fountain of solace

Suggests a comforting or consoling effect, often in times of grief or distress.

a pathway to ease

Emphasizes that something provides an easy way.

FAQs

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

You can use "a source of relief" to describe something that alleviates stress, pain, or burden. For example: "For many, religion is "a source of relief" during difficult times".

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

Alternatives include "a means of comfort", "a cause for reassurance", or "a harbor of ease", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a source of relief" or "a relief"?

"A source of relief" specifies the origin or cause of the relief, whereas "a relief" simply refers to the feeling of alleviation itself. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the cause or the effect.

What is the difference between "a source of relief" and "a sense of relief"?

"A source of relief" refers to something that causes the feeling, while "a sense of relief" is the feeling itself. For example, "The news was "a source of relief"", resulting in "a sense of relief".