ask for a source

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask for a source" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want someone to provide evidence or a reference for a claim or statement they have made. Example: "If you are going to make such a bold claim, I would appreciate it if you could ask for a source to back it up."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Press the add button in the top left corner and it will ask for a source link.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Cycle groups scratched their heads at the figure and asked for a source.

The Guardian - Opinion

Whatever happens, he "will be expected to ask for a pardon", sources close to the case in Ethiopia tells me.

Vice

Whatever happens, he "will be expected to ask for a pardon," sources close to the case in Ethiopia tell me.

Vice

A student asked for a reliable source for local level cost of living data because he couldn't trust what he'd found on the web.

Duke University

There is a lawyer in the state who got the idea we should ask for the source codes for these machines, which are software updates that from time to time the manufacturer sends out.

The New York Times

Note, though, that it will reject PS or PDF files created using TeX/LaTeX and ask for the source files.

Stanford University

This phrase, "you surely remember", is misleading and you cannot blame the interviewer for not interrupting Patrushev and asking him for a source.

The Guardian

"ask" : ask for each master source if products should be retrieved.

Harvard University

(ok, ok. I'm off to go ask for access to source. :-/ ).

Princeton University

And that's why reporters and editors always ask for multiple sources, direct attribution and some concrete evidence that the story is indeed based in fact.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "ask for a source", ensure the request is clear and polite, especially in professional or academic settings. This encourages cooperation and maintains a respectful tone.

Common error

Avoid accepting information based on a single source without further verification. Always cross-reference information from multiple, reliable sources to ensure accuracy and avoid potential bias.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask for a source" functions as a verb phrase used to request evidence or verification for a claim or statement. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, serving as a direct and clear way to seek validation.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

33%

Academia

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ask for a source" is a grammatically sound and clear way to request evidence or verification for a statement. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that while its usage is currently rare, it's perfectly acceptable in written English. It functions to promote accountability and credibility, particularly in contexts like news, media, academia, and informal discussions. To enhance your writing, use this phrase to encourage others to back up their claims and always cross-reference information to maintain accuracy and avoid potential biases.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cite your references

Specifically asks for a list of sources used.

back up your claims

Direct and challenges the person to support their statements.

request substantiation

More formal and concise, focusing on the act of providing evidence.

what's your evidence

Direct and focusing on the proof supporting the claim.

substantiate your statement

Formal and emphasizes providing evidence for a declaration.

seek verification

Highlights the need to confirm the truth or accuracy.

demand proof

Stronger and more assertive, implying doubt or disbelief.

require validation

Formal and emphasizes the need for official confirmation.

inquire about the origin

More indirect, focusing on the starting point of the information.

where did you hear that

Informal and focused on the immediate origin of the information.

FAQs

How can I politely "ask for a source"?

You can phrase your request as "Could you please provide a source for that information?" or "I'm interested in learning more about that; could you share your source?"

What does it mean to "ask for a source"?

It means requesting the original reference or evidence that supports a statement or claim, ensuring its credibility and verifiability. It's similar to "requesting substantiation".

When is it appropriate to "ask for a source"?

It's appropriate when evaluating the credibility of information, especially in academic, professional, or journalistic contexts, or when someone makes a claim that seems questionable.

What should I do if someone refuses to "ask for a source" when requested?

Consider the information unreliable, especially if the claim is significant or controversial. Look for corroborating evidence from other sources before accepting the information as true. It's similar to saying "demand proof".