according to a source

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "according to a source" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referencing information or claims that come from a specific individual or organization, often in journalistic or academic contexts. Example: "According to a source, the company plans to launch a new product next quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A meeting called by UMP head Jean-François Copé was reportedly tense, according to a source.

The Guardian

He was "deprogrammed" according to a source with knowledge of the case.

The Guardian

The fee was approximately forty thousand dollars, according to a source familiar with the arrangement.

The New Yorker

According to a source, last year Karimi received 45,000 for a three-day session.

The Guardian

According to a source close to the fund: 'Stamford will wait for the announcement.

The Guardian - Money

According to a source close to Finmeccanica, she was hired as a sales agent.

The Guardian

The station chief was firm, according to a source who was present.

The New York Times - Magazine

Islam, visibly nervous, did most of the talking, according to a source familiar with the conversation.

The Guardian - Business

This isn't the case, according to a source familiar with the matter.

The Guardian

According to a source familiar with the issue, Apple has had similar problems.

The Guardian

Thursday's meeting was described as "very positive", according to a source close to the negotiations.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "according to a source", ensure the information being attributed is significant and adds credibility to your writing. Avoid using it for trivial or easily verifiable facts.

Common error

Avoid overusing "according to a source" without providing any context or justification for the anonymity. If possible, hint at the source's position or expertise to maintain reader trust and transparency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "according to a source" serves as an attribution marker, indicating that the information presented is not the writer's original assertion but is derived from another individual or entity. This function aligns with the examples in Ludwig and the Ludwig AI's assessment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

News & Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "according to a source" is a common and grammatically sound method for attributing information to an external party, as confirmed by Ludwig. It is most frequently used in news and media to relay information while protecting the source's identity. While the phrase is useful, it's important to avoid overuse and provide context when possible to maintain credibility. Consider alternatives such as "sources indicate" or "reportedly" for stylistic variation. Always ensure that the information attributed using this phrase is significant and adds value to the overall communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

speaking on condition of anonymity

Explicitly states the source requires confidentiality, highlighting their need for protection.

a person familiar with the matter said

More specific, indicating the source has direct knowledge but remains unnamed.

confidential sources confirm

Highlights the secrecy surrounding the information and the reliability of the sources.

sources indicate

More concise and slightly more formal, implying multiple sources are providing the information.

an insider revealed

Emphasizes the source's position within an organization or situation.

reportedly

Indicates that the information has been reported, but the source is not explicitly named.

information suggests

Attributing the information to a general body of data rather than a specific individual.

it is understood that

Suggests a general understanding or consensus, possibly based on indirect sources.

it has been learned

Passive voice construction that indicates the information has come to light through an unspecified process.

details emerged that

Emphasizes the gradual revelation of information, often from various or unknown sources.

FAQs

How can I use "according to a source" in a sentence?

Use "according to a source" to introduce information you've obtained from someone who wishes to remain anonymous. For example, "According to a source, the company is planning a major restructuring."

What can I say instead of "according to a source"?

You can use alternatives like "sources indicate", "reportedly", or "a person familiar with the matter said" depending on the level of formality and specificity you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "according to a source"?

It's appropriate to use "according to a source" when you need to protect the identity of your informant, typically because they risk negative repercussions if their name is revealed.

What is the difference between "according to a source" and "as reported by"?

"According to a source" implies direct information from an individual, whereas "as reported by" suggests the information comes from a media outlet or published document, even if the original informant is still unnamed. It signals a less direct knowledge of the facts.