a useful source of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a useful source of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that provides valuable information or resources on a particular topic. Example: "The library is a useful source of information for students conducting research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"He is a useful source of information".

The New York Times

AITO can also be a useful source of information.

The Guardian

Carter's archive is a useful source of back-up information.

The Guardian

Your envy reflex can be a useful source of information.

Harvard Business Review

You may find it a useful source of supplemental information.

Harvard University

A useful source of information is www.marshallmich.com, as is the chamber of commerce's site, www.marshallmi.org.org

The New York Times - Travel

Ljubljana Life (ljubljanalife.com) is a useful source of what's-on information.

The Guardian - Travel

Britain's National Rail telephone service, (44-345) 484950, is a useful source of information.

The New York Times - Travel

Avoid the CV black hole Job boards are a useful source of information.

The Guardian

Its Web site, www.cet.org, is a useful source of information about SAD.

The New York Times - Health

Our Eurocamp courier, Chris, is a useful source of information on the best markets and festivals.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a useful source of", specify what kind of information or resource is being provided to give context and clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a useful source of" without indicating the specific benefit or type of information provided. Instead of saying "This website is a useful source of information", specify, "This website is a useful source of information about climate change policies."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a useful source of" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or an appositive. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase correctly identifies something that provides helpful information or resources, as shown in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

29%

News & Media

28%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a useful source of" is a versatile phrase used to describe something that provides valuable information or resources. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable across diverse contexts. While commonly found in News & Media, Science and Academia, its formality is generally neutral, suitable for both professional and casual communication. To maximize clarity, always specify what the source provides. Alternatives such as "a valuable resource for" and "a helpful provider of" can add nuance. Steer clear of overgeneralization, as the phrase will become much stronger if you specify the benefit/information that comes from the source.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valuable resource for

Emphasizes the importance and worth of the source.

a helpful provider of

Highlights the assistance and support offered by the source.

a beneficial origin of

Focuses on the positive effects and advantages of the source.

a reliable supplier of

Stresses the trustworthiness and dependability of the source.

a key contributor to

Highlights the significant role and input of the source.

a primary instrument for

Highlights the crucial role as means of something.

an effective means of

Focuses on the efficiency and practicality of the source.

a significant asset for

Highlights the importance as an advantage for something.

a productive avenue for

Emphasizes the potential for generating results and progress.

a fertile ground for

Highlights the potential for developing something.

FAQs

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

You can use "a useful source of" to indicate that something provides valuable information or resources. For example, "The library is "a useful source of" research materials".

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

Alternatives include "a valuable resource for", "a helpful provider of", or "a reliable supplier of" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a useful source of information" or "a valuable source of information"?

Both "a useful source of information" and "a valuable source of information" are correct. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the utility or the worth of the source.

When should I use "a useful source of" instead of "a good source of"?

While "a good source of" is generally acceptable, "a useful source of" is more appropriate when you want to emphasize the practical benefits and helpfulness of the source.