as a source

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a source" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that provides information, inspiration, or evidence for a particular topic or argument. Example: "The researcher cited several articles as a source to support her findings on climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It is prized as a source of jobs and as a source of tax revenue.

The New York Times

We see our ourselves as a source of healthy energy.

The New York Times

This area feels inexhaustible as a source of inspiration.

The Guardian

I see that as a source of national pride.

The Guardian

May his memory ever serve as a source of blessings.

The New York Times

Algae look promising as a source of biodiesel.

The New York Times - Books

A.: I wouldn't necessarily take him as a source.

The New York Times

"It was drying up as a source," he explained.

The New York Times

Q.: I'm not taking him as a source.

The New York Times

But competence has its limits as a source of inspiration.

The New Yorker

Hospitals look to doctors as a source of referrals.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a source", clearly specify what is being sourced. For example, instead of "Use the internet as a source", say "Use the internet as a source of information".

Common error

Avoid using "as a source" without clarifying the specific type of source. For instance, don't say "They used it as a source" when you could say "They used the study as a source of data".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a source" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or verb. Ludwig AI shows it commonly indicates the origin, supply, or derivation of something, providing essential context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as a source" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate the origin or provider of something, such as information, inspiration, or resources. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. While "as a source" is prevalent in various contexts, it appears most frequently in news media, science, and wiki-based content. To ensure clarity in writing, it's best to specify what is being sourced and avoid vague or unreliable sources. Alternatives like "as an origin" or "as a resource" can offer nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as an origin

Replaces "source" with a more direct term for beginning or derivation.

as a supply

Focuses on the aspect of providing something needed or wanted.

as a resource

Highlights the availability of something for a specific purpose.

as a derivation

Emphasizes the act of obtaining or developing something from a specific origin.

as a means

Shifts the focus to the method or way in which something is achieved.

in the capacity of a source

Adds formality and emphasizes the role or function.

serving as a source

Highlights the action of providing something.

functioning as a source

Similar to "serving as", but emphasizes the operational aspect.

as a wellspring

Uses a more metaphorical term to suggest abundance and continuous flow.

as an inspiration

Specifically indicates providing creative stimulus.

FAQs

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

The phrase "as a source" is used to indicate where something originates or is obtained from. For example, "The internet can be used as a source of information", or "The author cited several books as a source of inspiration".

What are some alternatives to "as a source"?

You can use alternatives such as "as an origin", "as a resource", or "as a means" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to specify what "as a source" refers to?

While not always grammatically required, specifying what is being sourced improves clarity and avoids ambiguity. For instance, instead of "They used it as a source", clarify with "They used the data as a source of evidence".

When is it inappropriate to use something "as a source"?

It's inappropriate to use something "as a source" if it's unreliable, biased, or lacks credibility. Always evaluate the reliability of a source before using it for information or evidence. Also, avoid using something "as a source" if you don't properly cite it.