it was a source of trouble

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was a source of trouble" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation, object, or person that caused difficulties or problems in a particular context. Example: "The outdated software was a source of trouble for the entire team, leading to delays in project completion."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

From the beginning, this pattern was a source of trouble and frustration".

The Guardian

That my brother was a source of trouble, a parcel to be handed right and left to be looked after.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is a source of nothing but trouble.

The New Yorker

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

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

Forbes

The name has long been a source of trouble for the band.

Wikipedia

It wasn't the "black" that troubled her — that was a source of pride.

The New York Times

The minimality condition is a source of potential trouble, however (Reinhart 1986, Dekker 2004; von Fintel 2004a,b).

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Replace the phrase with synonyms like '"it caused problems"' or '"it led to difficulties"' for variety.

Common error

Avoid using "it was a source of trouble" without specifying the 'it'. Always provide clear context to prevent confusion and ensure the reader understands what caused the problem.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was a source of trouble" functions as a description, indicating that something was the origin or cause of problems or difficulties. It is used to identify the root of an issue, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was a source of trouble" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe something that caused problems or difficulties. While Ludwig did not provide any exact matches for this phrase, it's generally acceptable across various contexts. To ensure clarity, always specify what 'it' refers to. The phrase can be replaced with alternatives such as "it caused problems" or "it led to difficulties" for stylistic variation. When using the phrase, avoid vague references to 'it' to maintain clarity. Ludwig AI confirms its descriptive function, serving to pinpoint the origin of an issue.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it caused problems

This alternative directly states that something created issues, simplifying the original phrase.

it created issues

A more direct and simpler way of saying something caused problems.

it led to difficulties

Focuses on the consequence of the issue, highlighting that it resulted in hardships.

it generated complications

Highlights that the original thing created intricate or difficult situations.

it proved problematic

This alternative emphasizes that something turned out to be troublesome over time.

it was a cause of concern

Shifts the focus to the worry or anxiety produced by the issue, rather than the trouble itself.

it presented challenges

Emphasizes the demanding nature of the situation created.

it became a nuisance

This suggests the issue was bothersome and irritating.

it triggered disruptions

Highlights the disruptive effect that something had.

it fostered unrest

This is more emphatic because highlights that the issue created a state of disturbance or dissatisfaction.

FAQs

What does "it was a source of trouble" mean?

The phrase "it was a source of trouble" means that something caused problems, difficulties, or distress in a particular situation or context.

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

You can use "it was a source of trouble" to describe something that caused issues or difficulties, such as "The outdated software "was a source of trouble" for the team".

What are some alternatives to "it was a source of trouble"?

Alternatives include "it caused problems", "it led to difficulties", or "it created issues", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it was a source of trouble" formal or informal?

"It was a source of trouble" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.