a source of strength

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of strength" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something or someone that provides support, encouragement, or resilience. Example: "During difficult times, my family has always been a source of strength for me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

That openness is a source of strength.

The Guardian - Opinion

A source of strength and happiness.

The Guardian

Now, however, it's a source of strength.

The Guardian

Are they a source of strength?

University of California, Berkeley

Rather, it's a source of strength and agility.

The New Yorker

Diversity is a source of strength, vitality and pride.

The Guardian

"He remains a towering inspiration and a source of strength.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Your friends and family will be a source of strength for you.

Huffington Post

Unlike adults, they don't know any better, and that is a source of strength.

Independent

But 69% of Houstonians think the city's ethnic diversity will become a source of strength.

The Economist

Over three decades, political and military leaders have appealed to Islam as a source of strength.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a source of strength", ensure it clearly identifies the entity providing support, whether it's a person, concept, or thing. For example, "Family was a source of strength during the crisis."

Common error

Avoid using "a source of strength" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language by using synonyms like "pillar of support" or "wellspring of resilience" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of strength" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies something that provides support, resilience, or empowerment. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

21%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Science

14%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a source of strength" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to describe something or someone that provides support, resilience, or empowerment. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's versatile and appropriate for various contexts, especially news and media, academia, and formal business. While it's valuable to use synonyms to avoid redundancy and enrich writing, understanding its core meaning and correct usage ensures clear and effective communication. The phrase is a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It's worth noting that while it's mostly used positively, sometimes a situation might provide it in a negative way.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a pillar of support

This alternative emphasizes the supportive and reliable nature, akin to a strong architectural element.

a wellspring of resilience

This alternative highlights the ability to recover quickly from difficulties, focusing on inner fortitude.

a bastion of hope

This alternative emphasizes the aspect of providing optimism and encouragement during challenging times.

a bedrock of stability

This alternative focuses on providing a firm and unwavering foundation.

a fount of courage

This alternative highlights the capacity to inspire bravery and determination.

an empowering influence

This alternative underscores the ability to make someone stronger and more confident.

a sustaining force

This alternative highlights the ability to maintain or support something over a long period.

a constant encouragement

This alternative emphasizes the ongoing support and motivation provided.

an anchor in difficult times

This alternative describes something that provides stability and security when things are challenging.

a comfort in adversity

This alternative focuses on the ability to provide solace and ease suffering during hardship.

FAQs

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

Use "a source of strength" to describe something or someone that provides support, encouragement, or resilience. For example, "Her unwavering determination was a source of strength for her team."

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

You can use alternatives like "a pillar of support", "a wellspring of resilience", or "a bedrock of stability" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a source for strength" instead of "a source of strength"?

While "a source for strength" might be understood, "a source of strength" is the idiomatic and grammatically preferred construction. "Of" indicates possession or origin, which aligns better with the intended meaning.

Can "a source of strength" refer to a negative quality or situation?

While typically used positively, the phrase can be applied to something seemingly negative that paradoxically provides resolve. For example, "His difficult childhood became a source of strength, fueling his ambition."