Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
competent sources
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "competent sources" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to sources of information that are knowledgeable, skilled, or reliable in a particular field or subject matter. Example: "For accurate data on climate change, it is essential to consult competent sources such as scientific journals and expert reports."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Alternative expressions(3)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
The paper quoted "highly competent sources in Afghanistan," but did not say whether they were with the Taliban.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
58 human-written examples
"And yet," he said, "these symptoms are entirely controllable when there is access to a competent source of ongoing health care".
News & Media
Where such does not exist, approval is required from another legitimate, authoritative and competent source, such as the WHO Research Ethics Review Committee.
Years later, reporters would find Karr's name within KGB files, which referred to him as a "competent source" who brokered meetings between the Russians and high-level American politicians - specifically Kennedy, according to a 1992 story in The Boston Globe.
News & Media
Even pharmacists were not accepted as an equally competent source of delivering this information.
Science
In recent years, wind power technology has reached to commercial acceptance and has become economically competent with regular sources of energy.
That it's competent.
News & Media
It is now believed that there may be several retrotranspositionally-competent source genes within an Alu subfamily.
Science
Whereas mast-cell-focused therapies have not yet been specifically attempted, cytokine effector pathways including tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα) have already proven amenable to target – mast cells, however, may represent only a proportion of the TNFα competent cell sources in synovium.
Moreover, how do health care organizations source competent talent, and how do they adapt to emerging technologies, like mobile?
News & Media
FETPs are a competent and diverse source of highly skilled public health professionals who contribute significantly to public health's global human resource needs.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using the phrase "competent sources", ensure that the expertise of the sources aligns with the subject matter. Provide context to establish their credibility.
Common error
Avoid using "competent sources" without substantiating their expertise. Claims of competence should be supported by evidence or context, not used as a generic label.
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
4.3/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "competent sources" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where 'competent' modifies 'sources' to indicate they possess the necessary skill or knowledge. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable in written English.
Frequent in
News & Media
30%
Science
30%
Formal & Business
20%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
5%
Wiki
5%
Social Media
10%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "competent sources" correctly denotes sources that are skilled, knowledgeable, and reliable. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and readily usable in writing. It's most frequently found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, emphasizing source credibility. When using this phrase, be sure the competence of the sources is well-established. Alternatives such as "reliable authorities" or "knowledgeable experts" may be used depending on the specific context.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
reliable authorities
This alternative focuses on the reliability and official status of the sources.
trustworthy sources
This alternative highlights the degree to which the sources can be trusted.
knowledgeable experts
This alternative highlights the expertise and knowledge of the individuals or entities providing the information.
credible resources
This alternative emphasizes the trustworthiness and believability of the sources.
authoritative references
This alternative stresses the official and respected nature of the sources.
qualified informants
This alternative emphasizes the specific qualifications and insider knowledge of the sources.
well-informed individuals
This alternative emphasizes that the people in question have broad knowledge.
experienced professionals
This alternative emphasizes professional experience as a basis of authority.
validated data
This alternative refers to information that has been confirmed as accurate and credible.
expert witnesses
This alternative suggests professionals designated to give testimony based on their specific competence.
FAQs
How can I effectively use "competent sources" in my writing?
When referring to "competent sources", ensure you either explicitly state their qualifications or the context implies their expertise. This enhances the credibility of your claims.
What are some alternatives to "competent sources"?
Depending on the context, alternatives include "reliable authorities", "knowledgeable experts", or "credible resources".
Is it always necessary to specify that sources are "competent"?
No, it's not always necessary. If the source's competence is self-evident or implied by their position or the publication they're in, specifying it may be redundant. However, when competence isn't immediately clear, it's valuable information.
How does "competent sources" differ from "official sources"?
"Competent sources" highlights expertise and skill, while "official sources" emphasizes authority and legitimacy. An official source may not always be competent in the specific subject, and a competent source may not hold official authority.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
80%
Authority and reliability
4.3/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested