a source of solace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of solace" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that provides comfort or consolation during difficult times. Example: "After a long day, I often turn to music as a source of solace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Today, Islam is a source of solace for me.

The Guardian - Arts

Motherhood has plainly been a source of solace, and a revelation.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"At times it's been a source of solace, just knowing that's my name".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

China's one-child policy has turned family life from a source of solace to a font of anxiety.

The New York Times

To Miller and millions of others, Ali was a hero, "a source of solace in a bleak life".

The Guardian - Sport

It's clear that for fans, My Chemical Romance are both a source of solace and an excuse to swear frequently.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Here, as you walk up those white marble steps, classical architecture isn't an old, stuffy past weighing heavily on you; it is more a source of comfort, solace, and a sense of wisely considered possibility.

The New Yorker

Faith here functions variously as a source of comfort, solace and reflection, a prelude to eternity, a readying for the hereafter, a guide to this world and a hope for the next, part theology, part tea-and-cakes community, part fund-raising fetes for the bell tower, combining habit, ritual and belief in variable quantities.

The New York Times

"And that, to me, is a source of some solace and comfort".

The New York Times - Science

Football would usually be a source of national solace, but offers scant consolation due to the Fifa bribery inquiry and painful memories of last year's 7-1 World Cup humiliation by Germany.

The Guardian - Sport

Wallowing in memories was a source of incomparable solace to many, whilst others clung tenaciously to their faith.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a source of solace", ensure the context clearly indicates what is providing the comfort or relief. This enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid vague or unclear references to what is providing the "source of solace". Be specific to ensure the reader understands the comforting element.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of solace" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. As shown by Ludwig, it identifies something that provides comfort or relief from distress.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

25%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a source of solace" is a noun phrase used to describe something that provides comfort or relief during difficult times. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While it is similar to "a source of comfort", it often implies a deeper sense of consolation. When employing the phrase, ensure clarity by explicitly stating what is providing the solace. Consider alternative phrases like "a means of consolation" or "a refuge in sorrow" to suit the specific context and desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a comfort in difficult times

Replaces "source" with "comfort" and specifies the context of difficulty.

a means of consolation

Substitutes "source" with "means" and "solace" with "consolation", focusing on the action of comforting.

a refuge in sorrow

Replaces "source" with "refuge" and "solace" with "sorrow", emphasizing shelter during sadness.

a haven of peace

Uses "haven of peace" to evoke tranquility and relief from distress.

a balm for the soul

Employs a metaphor suggesting a healing agent for emotional pain.

an emotional support

Focuses on the support aspect of solace, highlighting its emotional nature.

a respite from hardship

Highlights the break or relief provided from difficult situations.

a place of comfort

Emphasizes the location or space where comfort is found.

a reliever of distress

Focuses on the action of alleviating pain or suffering.

a moral support

Underlines the provision of mental and emotional well-being.

FAQs

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

You can use "a source of solace" to describe anything that provides comfort or relief during difficult times. For example: "For many, religion is "a source of solace" during times of grief."

What's an alternative to saying "a source of solace"?

Alternatives include "a source of comfort", "a means of consolation", or "a refuge in sorrow", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

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

The phrase "a source of solace" is suitable for various writing styles, including formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends on the overall tone and purpose of your writing.

How does "a source of solace" differ from "a source of comfort"?

While both phrases are similar, "a source of solace" often implies a deeper level of emotional or spiritual relief than "a source of comfort". "Solace" suggests a more profound sense of consolation during times of grief or distress.