at the sources

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the sources" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the origin or point of origin of information, materials, or resources. Example: "The researchers conducted their analysis at the sources of the river to understand the water quality."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Israelis responded by firing from tanks at the sources of the shooting.

The New York Times

Beech forests are found at the sources of the Ichel and Bâcu rivers.

Britannica

Look at the sources of their traffic and see where their visitors come from.

Harvard University

Refined models are described as tools aiming at improved noise control at the sources.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

This surely requires a calm look at the sources of immigration and the prospects for limiting them.

The Guardian - Opinion

It seems that, like President Trump, "Windfall" is looking at the sources of American power through a rearview mirror.

The New York Times - Books

Look at the sources of inflationary pressure and it is hard to see the Fed dropping its guard.

The Economist

"We need to look at the sources of all their money and how it's spent," Mr. Seliger said.

The New York Times

Commonly, large quantities of disinfectants are released at the sources outlets for preserving minimum residual disinfectant concentrations throughout the network.

Water Research

By copying information from sources and distributing it to new destinations we do not lose information at the sources.

Developments in Integrated Environmental Assessment

The army has said repeatedly that its forces in Rafah shoot only when fired upon and at the sources of attack.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at the sources", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is originating from those sources. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "at the sources" when a more specific term like "origin", "beginning", or "foundation" would provide greater clarity and precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the sources" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to specify the location or origin of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

35%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at the sources" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed prepositional phrase, particularly within scientific, news-related, and academic spheres. As validated by Ludwig AI, its primary function is to pinpoint the origin or starting point of something, lending clarity and context to information or actions. While adaptable to various registers, it typically maintains a neutral to formal tone. For enhanced precision in writing, consider context-specific alternatives like "from the origin" or "at the point of origin". Ensuring that the originating entity is clear and precise is crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the point of origin

Formally specifies the exact location where something originates.

from the origin

Focuses on the place where something starts.

at the genesis

Emphasizes the creation or beginning of something new.

at the starting point

Emphasizes the initial location or beginning.

from the roots

Highlights the foundational or underlying aspects.

at the foundation

Highlights the base or support from which something develops.

from inception

Focuses on the beginning or commencement of something.

in the headwaters

Specifically refers to the source of a river or stream.

at the wellspring

Implies a source of abundance or continuous supply.

from the wellhead

Refers to the source of a liquid or gas, often oil or water.

FAQs

How can I use "at the sources" in a sentence?

You can use "at the sources" to indicate the origin or starting point of something, as in "The investigation began "at the sources" of the leaked information".

What's the difference between "at the sources" and "from the sources"?

"At the sources" emphasizes the location or point of origin, while "from the sources" stresses the derivation or extraction. You are "at" a location, but information comes "from" a source.

What can I say instead of "at the sources"?

You can use alternatives like "from the origin", "at the point of origin", or "from the roots" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "at source" instead of "at the sources"?

While "at source" is grammatically correct, it's less common and often used in more technical contexts, especially when referring to a single, identifiable source. "At the sources" is generally preferred when referring to multiple origins or a less defined origin.