a source of surprise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of surprise" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that causes unexpected feelings or reactions. Example: "The sudden change in weather was a source of surprise for everyone at the picnic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

As a source of surprise and paradox, Zionism seems to stand without parallel in world history.

The New York Times - Books

Actually, it's not difficult to follow, since the structure reveals itself slowly, in stages, and each one of these small revelations is a source of surprise and pleasure.

The New York Times - Books

Despite the powerful technologies that scientists currently have to characterize pathogens and treat the infections they cause, the course and consequences of epidemics are still a source of surprise.

The New Yorker

That his invention became subsumed into the larger culture business, to the point that the noise of modernity required constant muting, or that a universal remote could control dozens of home appliances, was for him a source of surprise.

The New York Times - Magazine

A source of surprise to many Arab and European diplomats here is the increasing evidence of the United States' willingness to make demands on Israel to take parallel actions -- not only by giving up the Gaza Strip, but also by dismantling "outposts" of settlements and releasing prisoners.

The New York Times

It may be a source of surprise that Saturday will see the 70th staging of the contest between Oxford and Cambridge.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

But that science, he emphasizes, will never offer a perfect forecast; the atmosphere, with complex links to the sun and oceans, will long remain a source of surprises.

The New York Times - Books

Some of the actors, like Ms. Phillips, with her head fixed on a homegirl swivel, are a source of continual surprise.

The New York Times

Julia Langdon writes: It was a source of some surprise at Westminster that after his retirement as an MP, Walter Harrison was never offered a seat in the House of Lords.

The Guardian

Cervelli in gabbia will be a further denunciation, a window on the difficulties young people face every day in Italy's research realm, and a source of sad surprises.

Science Magazine

It's a dependable source of surprise, puzzlement, irritation and delight, offering an eclectic mix of rising local talent, offbeat takes on popular culture and notable but not quite household-name artists from all over the world.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a source of surprise", ensure the context clearly indicates what is unexpected or surprising about the subject. Provide sufficient detail to explain the nature of the surprise to your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "a source of surprise" in situations where the outcome is inherently unpredictable. Overusing it in such contexts can diminish its impact and make your writing seem less insightful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of surprise" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject complement or object complement, identifying or describing something that causes unexpected feelings or reactions. As Ludwig examples show, it’s used to characterize events, people, or situations that deviate from expectations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

28%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a source of surprise" is a noun phrase used to describe something that causes unexpected feelings or reactions. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts, primarily in news, media, science and wiki. While it's essential to use it judiciously to maintain its impact, recognizing its function and purpose can enhance your writing. Alternative phrasing, like "a reason for surprise" or "a cause for astonishment", can add nuance depending on the context. Understanding these facets allows for more precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a reason for surprise

This alternative is a more direct and literal substitute, focusing on the cause of the surprise.

a cause for astonishment

This alternative emphasizes the feeling of great surprise and wonder.

a continual cause of surprise

This alternative focuses on the ongoing nature of the surprise.

a fountain of amazement

This alternative uses a metaphor to describe something that continuously provides surprise.

a font of wonder

This alternative emphasizes the element of wonder associated with the surprise.

a trigger for amazement

This alternative indicates that the primary query makes people amazed.

an origin of astonishment

This alternative highlights that the primary query is an origin for astonishment.

a wellspring of wonderment

This alternative highlights the fact that primary query is a great source of wonderment.

an unending source of astonishment

This alternative emphasizes the continuous and never-ending nature of the astonishment.

an endless source of astonishment

This alternative highlights the fact that primary query has the capacity to give never-ending astonishment.

FAQs

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

You can use "a source of surprise" to describe something that unexpectedly causes feelings of wonder or astonishment. For instance, "His sudden change of heart was a source of surprise to everyone involved."

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

Alternatives include "a cause for astonishment", "a reason for surprise", or "a fountain of amazement", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a source of surprise" or "a surprising source"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they emphasize different aspects. "A source of surprise" highlights the origin of the surprise, while "a surprising source" emphasizes the unexpected nature of the source itself. The best choice depends on the specific context.

Can "a source of surprise" be used in both positive and negative contexts?

Yes, "a source of surprise" can be used in both positive and negative contexts. It simply indicates something unexpected. For example, "Her generosity was a source of surprise" (positive), or "The betrayal was a source of surprise" (negative).