it came from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it came from" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate the origin or source of something, whether it's an idea, object, or information. Example: "The recipe is delicious, but I must admit, it came from my grandmother's old cookbook."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It came from Hausdorff.

The New York Times

It came from space".

Independent

It came from everywhere.

The New York Times - Arts

Where it came from.

The New Yorker

It came from afar.

The New Yorker

It came from the crowd.

The New York Times

It came from current players.

The New York Times - Sports

Instead, it came from a prosecutor.

The New York Times

It came from an unlikely source.

The New Yorker

Did he know where it came from?

The New York Times - Arts

"It came from other sources," Powell testified.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it came from", ensure the context clearly identifies what "it" refers to, to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "The idea was innovative; it came from a brainstorming session", specify: "The innovative idea came from a brainstorming session".

Common error

Avoid using "it came from" when the antecedent of "it" is unclear or too far removed from the phrase in the sentence. This can confuse readers. Always make sure the subject is clearly defined. Instead of: "The project failed. It came from a flawed strategy", clarify: "The project failed because it came from a flawed strategy".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it came from" functions as a predicate in a sentence, specifically indicating the origin or source of a subject. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it came from" is a versatile and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate the origin or source of something. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage. It is prevalent in news and media contexts, offering a clear way to express derivation or origination. For enhanced clarity, ensure the antecedent of "it" is clearly defined, and consider more formal alternatives in academic or professional settings to refine your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it originated from

Focuses on the point of origin or beginning.

it stemmed from

Implies that something developed or resulted from a particular source or cause.

it derived from

Highlights the process of obtaining something from a source.

it arose from

Indicates that something emerged or started from a specific point.

it emerged from

Suggests a gradual appearance or development from something.

it was sourced from

Emphasizes the act of obtaining something from a specific supplier or provider.

it was born out of

Highlights the creation or development of something as a direct result of a situation or condition.

its origin was

States the origin of something.

the source was

Identifies the source.

it traces back to

Implies a historical connection or root.

FAQs

How can I use "it came from" in a sentence?

Use "it came from" to indicate the origin or source of something. For example, "The inspiration for the painting "it came from" nature" or "The rumor "it came from" an anonymous source".

What are some alternatives to "it came from"?

You can use phrases like "it originated from", "it stemmed from", or "it derived from" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it came from" formal or informal?

"It came from" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives might be preferred in certain academic or professional settings.

How can I make my writing clearer when using "it came from"?

Ensure that the subject "it" refers to is clear and unambiguous. If there's any chance of confusion, replace "it" with the specific subject. For example, instead of "The problem was complex; "it came from" multiple factors", write "The complex problem "it came from" multiple factors".