a source of suffering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of suffering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that causes pain, distress, or hardship in a person's life or experience. Example: "The loss of a loved one can often become a source of suffering that lingers for years."

✓ Grammatically correct

The phrase is used to describe something that causes pain, distress, or hardship.

It appears in various contexts including books, news articles, academic papers and general discussions.

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The absent hand is more of a curiosity and totem (this book revolves around many discreetly enchanted places and things) than a source of suffering.

The New York Times - Books

It was not until 1998, after the collapse of the Soviet regime, that Oleg Gazenko, one of the scientists responsible for sending Laika into space, expressed regret for allowing her to die: Work with animals is a source of suffering to all of us.

Wikipedia

Dietary advice regarding reduced consumption of carbohydrates was perceived as a source of suffering for family members.

BMJ Open

In all the FGDs women perceived breast cancer as a source of suffering for the woman and her loved ones followed by death.

BMC Women's Health

Where people are unable to do this, or it takes longer than expected (Rasmussen and Elverdam, 2007), the loss of this former valued self becomes a source of suffering.

British Journal of Cancer

Desire "is a source of suffering, pain and hatred".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The idea had a genuine edge not so much of feminist rage as of women's pain: she had lost her four children to illness, and came of age in a working-class world in which constant pregnancy was a prime source of suffering.

The New Yorker

The risk is that we will frame trade as a fundamental source of suffering and losses, which would make voters more nervous, not less.

The New York Times

This is true for example in Buddhism, which sees change in nature and the cosmos as a potential source of suffering for the human.

Yale University

Failing or nonexistent health care systems are a major source of suffering not just in the U.S., but also around the world, where they mainly affect the global poor, who die from infection, disease, childbirth, and other causes that rarely kill in developed nations.

Harvard University

A lack of detailed knowledge about the Holocaust is widespread among Palestinians, who view that chapter of history as a catalyst to the creation of Israel and thus a source of their suffering.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a source of suffering", consider the intensity and duration of the suffering. Choose more precise words if you wish to convey acute pain versus chronic distress.

Common error

Avoid using "a source of suffering" for minor inconveniences. It is better reserved for situations of genuine hardship or distress. Otherwise, it might sound exaggerated or melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of suffering" functions as a noun phrase, identifying the origin or cause of pain, distress, or hardship. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in diverse contexts, from physical ailments to emotional distress.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

32%

Academia

21%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a source of suffering" is used to identify the origin or cause of pain, distress, or hardship. Ludwig AI indicates that this expression is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While primarily found in news, scientific, and academic contexts, it is crucial to consider the intensity of the situation when choosing to use this phrase. Alternatives like "a cause of pain" or "a reason for misery" may be more appropriate depending on the context. Overusing this phrase in casual situations can sound exaggerated. It's recommended to reserve "a source of suffering" for scenarios involving genuine hardship or distress.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a cause of pain

Replaces "source of suffering" with a more direct term for physical or emotional hurt.

a reason for misery

Substitutes "suffering" with "misery", emphasizing the depth of unhappiness.

an origin of torment

Replaces "suffering" with "torment", highlighting severe pain or anguish.

a root of anguish

Uses "root" to suggest a deeper, underlying cause of distress.

a wellspring of woe

Employs "wellspring" to indicate an abundant and continuous source of sorrow.

a fountain of grief

Replaces "suffering" with "grief", emphasizing sorrow and mourning.

a generator of hardship

Uses "generator" to suggest the active production of difficult circumstances.

a breeding ground for distress

Implies that the phrase creates an environment where problems start.

an instigator of agony

Uses "instigator" to indicate something that actively provokes intense suffering.

a trigger for despair

Emphasizes the phrase as the starting point of hopelessness.

FAQs

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

You can use "a source of suffering" to describe something that causes pain or distress. For example, "Financial instability can be a major source of suffering for many families."

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

Some alternatives include "a cause of pain", "a reason for misery", or "an origin of torment", depending on the specific context and intensity of the suffering.

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

Yes, "a source of suffering" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing serious or significant issues. However, ensure that the context warrants the use of such a strong phrase.

What's the difference between "a source of suffering" and "a source of discomfort"?

"A source of suffering" implies a deeper, more prolonged pain or distress, while "a source of discomfort" refers to a milder, often temporary, unease. The choice depends on the severity of the situation you are describing.