confidential source

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "confidential source" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to journalism, legal matters, or any situation where information is provided with the expectation of privacy. Example: "The reporter relied on a confidential source to uncover the truth behind the scandal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Legal

Government

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In this case, the confidential source, of his own free will, completely waived his confidentiality".

The New York Times

"I was not a confidential source".

The New York Times

A confidential source of mine's just texted.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Can a journalist defy the wishes of a confidential source?

The Guardian - Opinion

Prosecutors said, for example, that one informant received payments over 20 years as a confidential source.

The New York Times

Why is it big news for a media organization to reveal a confidential source?

The New York Times

Previously, he was described in the indictment only as CS-1, or confidential source.

The New York Times

The story is based on a confidential source and causes ructions at the top.

The Guardian

The German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung said its reporters had obtained the documents from a confidential source.

The New York Times

The affidavit, released Wednesday, identifies Donaghy as a confidential source called "CS-1".

The New York Times - Sports

Rightly, the Times asked whether it had compromised Alderson's privilege as a confidential source.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about journalism or legal matters, accurately distinguish between an "anonymous source" (whose name is known but not revealed) and a "confidential source" (whose identity is kept secret by agreement).

Common error

Avoid using "anonymous source" and "confidential source" interchangeably. "Anonymous" implies the source's name is known but withheld, whereas "confidential" implies a mutual agreement to protect the source's identity entirely.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "confidential source" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying an individual or entity providing information under the condition of anonymity. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in journalistic, legal, and investigative contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

7%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "confidential source" is a commonly used noun phrase denoting a person or entity providing information under a confidentiality agreement. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, revealing its prevalence in news, legal, and investigative reporting. Maintaining the distinction between "anonymous" and "confidential" is key, and awareness of legal and ethical considerations is crucial when working with such sources. Alternatives include "anonymous informant" or "secret source". The phrase's prevalence highlights its importance in sensitive information gathering and dissemination.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

secret source

Simple substitution of "confidential" with "secret", keeping the core meaning intact.

anonymous informant

Replaces "source" with "informant" and "confidential" with "anonymous", emphasizing the secrecy of the informant.

off-the-record source

Highlights that the information provided is not for public attribution.

unnamed contact

Uses "contact" instead of "source", focusing on the communication aspect and maintaining anonymity.

non-attributed informant

Specifies that the information comes from an informant who cannot be attributed.

protected informant

Highlights the protection offered to the informant due to the sensitivity of the information.

covert contact

Emphasizes the hidden or secretive nature of the contact.

insider tipster

Emphasizes the 'insider' nature of the source and their role as a provider of tips.

undisclosed provider

A more formal way of saying the information came from a source whose identity is not revealed.

private communicator

Focuses on the act of private communication, broadening the term beyond traditional 'sources'.

FAQs

What's the difference between an "anonymous source" and a "confidential source"?

An "anonymous source" is someone whose name is known but not revealed, while a "confidential source" has an agreement with the reporter to keep their identity secret. The distinction lies in whether the reporter knows the source's identity or not.

When is it appropriate to use a "confidential source" in journalism?

It's appropriate when the source's information is vital to the public interest, but revealing their identity could put them at risk of harm or legal repercussions. Journalists should carefully weigh the need for confidentiality against the public's right to know the source.

What legal protections exist for journalists who rely on "confidential sources"?

Some jurisdictions have shield laws that protect journalists from being compelled to reveal their "confidential sources". However, these laws vary widely, and journalists may still face legal challenges or even jail time for refusing to disclose a source in certain cases.

Are there ethical considerations when using a "confidential source"?

Yes. Journalists must ensure the information from the "confidential source" is accurate and reliable. They should also be transparent with their audience about why the source's identity is being protected and avoid using anonymity to manipulate or deceive.