be a source of trouble

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a source of trouble" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, person, or thing that causes problems or difficulties. Example: "His constant lateness began to be a source of trouble for the entire team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

What has emerged in recent days is more than evolution, but a major leap by the commission that has many member states concerned and may yet be a source of trouble in the weeks to come.

The Guardian

The Prague Government is anxious to be rid of them, fearing that they may form a new minority which will be a source of trouble between Berlin and Prague.

The Guardian

In many ways the surge in buy-backs is a symptom of the rich world's feeble growth prospects.But it could also be a source of trouble, for two main reasons.

The Economist

Even email can be a source of trouble if used without discretion, he says.

Forbes

More specifically, Apple's habit of "upgrading" its products to exclude competitors could be a source of trouble.

TechCrunch

Conway, on the other hand, did not think highly of Washington's leadership, and proved to be a source of trouble in the 1777 campaign season and its aftermath.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

"Imposition of tariffs will act similarly to cheap money policy: It creates margins which would not otherwise exist and therefore calls forth enterprise and secondary expansion that may be a source of troubles".

Forbes

D'Elía suggests that this is a source of trouble.

The New Yorker

That location has long been a source of trouble.

The New York Times

The receivership itself has been a source of trouble.

The New York Times

But at times those qualities have been a source of trouble.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be a source of trouble", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. It implies a continuous or recurring problem rather than a one-time event. Choose stronger verbs if the context requires more emphasis.

Common error

Avoid overuse of passive voice when employing the phrase "be a source of trouble". Instead of saying "The new regulations were a source of trouble for the company", opt for "The new regulations troubled the company" for a more direct and impactful statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a source of trouble" functions as a predicative expression, attributing a quality of causing problems or difficulties to a subject. As Ludwig AI shows, it's used to identify the origin or reason behind issues in various situations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

14%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

9%

Science

9%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be a source of trouble" is a grammatically sound and readily understandable way to describe something that causes consistent problems or difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous real-world examples. While not overly frequent, it is versatile enough to appear in various contexts, from news reports to encyclopedic entries. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "cause problems" or "create difficulties", depending on the specific nuance you intend to convey. Be mindful of using passive voice, and always consider if a more direct statement would enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cause problems

This alternative is more direct and general, referring to the act of creating problems without specifying the origin.

create difficulties

This option emphasizes the creation of challenging situations rather than outright trouble.

generate issues

This alternative highlights the production or origination of problems, often in a more formal context.

lead to complications

This phrase focuses on the development of complex and problematic situations as a result.

stir up conflict

This option suggests the instigation of disagreements or clashes.

provoke unrest

This alternative implies causing disruption and dissatisfaction, particularly in a social or political context.

breed discontent

This phrase suggests nurturing unhappiness and dissatisfaction over time.

foster discord

This alternative points to encouraging disagreement and disharmony.

incur difficulty

This alternative emphasizes the action of bringing the problem to oneself.

spell trouble

This is an idiomatic expression that suggests an impending problem or negative outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "be a source of trouble" in a sentence?

You can use "be a source of trouble" to describe something that causes problems or difficulties. For example: "His constant lateness began to "be a source of trouble" for the entire team".

What are some alternatives to "be a source of trouble"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "cause problems", "create difficulties", or "generate issues".

Is it better to use "be a source of trouble" or "cause trouble"?

Both phrases are correct, but "be a source of trouble" suggests a more ongoing or consistent problem, while "cause trouble" can refer to a single incident. Choose the phrase that best fits the context.

What does it mean when something "is a source of trouble"?

When something "is a source of trouble", it means that it consistently leads to problems, difficulties, or conflicts. It implies that the thing in question is a recurring cause of negative outcomes.