alternative source

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "alternative source" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a different origin or provider of information, resources, or materials. Example: "When researching the topic, I found an alternative source that provided a different perspective on the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"There's no alternative source of funding".

The New York Times

Eventually I found an alternative source of sunshine in Amsterdam.

The New York Times - Travel

An alternative source for definitions of complexes, homeomorphisms, and manifolds.

University of California, Berkeley

"Our priority is to find an alternative source and routes.

The New York Times

Genetically-engineered pigs may provide an alternative source.

International Journal of Surgery

An anaerobic digestion has become an alternative source.

Bioresource Technology

Usually they have no access to an affordable alternative source.

Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Parts A-B-C

Microorganisms are an important alternative source also being explored.

Progress in Lipid Research

Linear alcohols represent an important alternative source of energy.

Fluid Phase Equilibria

Unfortunately, he has already found an alternative source of aid in China.

The Guardian

Iran seem to have found an alternative source of energy from somewhere.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "alternative source", ensure it's clear what the primary source is and why an alternative is needed. This provides context and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "alternative source" without clearly specifying what the original or primary source is. Ambiguity can weaken the impact and clarity of your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "alternative source" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a substitute origin, provider, or means, as supported by Ludwig's examples demonstrating its use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "alternative source" is a versatile noun phrase commonly used to denote a substitute or backup origin across various contexts. As indicated by Ludwig, its grammatical status is correct, and its usage spans scientific, news, and formal business domains. When using "alternative source", clarity is key; specify what the original source is to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "substitute resource" or "backup provider" can add nuance depending on the context. The prevalence and adaptability of "alternative source" make it a valuable phrase in both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

alternate origin

Replaces 'source' with 'origin', slightly shifting the focus to the point of commencement.

substitute resource

Directly indicates that one resource is being used in place of another.

backup provider

Emphasizes the role of the source as a reserve or substitute.

secondary resource

Highlights the supportive or less primary nature of the source.

different supply

Focuses on the provision aspect, suggesting a different channel of supply.

reserve supply

Highlights the source as a backup, ready for use when needed.

another avenue

Frames the source as a pathway or means to obtain something.

replacement mechanism

Implies a structured system that takes over when the primary source is unavailable.

additional option

Presents the source as one of multiple possibilities or choices.

independent channel

Stresses the self-governing and unaffiliated nature of the source.

FAQs

How can I use "alternative source" in a sentence?

Use "alternative source" to indicate a different origin or provider of information, resources, or materials. For example, "We need to find an "alternative source" of funding for the project".

What are some synonyms for "alternative source"?

You can use alternatives like "substitute resource", "backup provider", or "secondary resource" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to specify the primary source when mentioning an "alternative source"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying the primary source provides context and clarity. Without it, the meaning can become vague. For example, saying "We need an "alternative source"" is less informative than "We need an "alternative source" of energy because oil reserves are dwindling".

What is the difference between "alternative source" and "primary source"?

A "primary source" is the original or main origin, while an "alternative source" is a secondary or substitute origin used when the "primary source" is unavailable, insufficient, or undesirable.