its source

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "its source" can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to an object or person's origin, originator, or origin of influence. For example: "The river has been diverted from its source further up in the mountain range."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

My rage needed its source ― it needed my father.

Huffington Post

It cited unnamed family members as its source.

The Guardian

It can be deadly, and identifying its source is difficult.

Huffington Post

It stood apart in its affection for its source material.

The New York Times - Arts

It is more creative, while remaining true to its source.

Huffington Post

Mandy couldn't understand its source.

The New Yorker

What's its source?

The New York Times

Its source is unkown.

The Guardian

The Mystery: Its Source.

The New York Times

Its source material?

The Guardian - Film

Eating one at its source seemed mandatory.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the origin of information, clearly define what constitutes the "source" to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify whether you are referring to the original research, the publication, or the individual who provided the information.

Common error

Avoid using "its source" without proper context. Ensure the reader understands what "it" refers to, preventing confusion about what the source is actually for. For example, instead of saying, 'The problem is difficult to trace to its source', specify: 'The water contamination is difficult to trace to its source'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "its source" functions as a noun phrase acting as a possessive determiner followed by a common noun. It identifies the origin, starting point, or causal agent of something. Ludwig examples demonstrate its wide applicability across different domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Academia

20%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "its source" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to denote the origin or cause of something. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase appears frequently in News & Media, Academia, and Science, suggesting its broad applicability and neutral register. To ensure clarity, specify the context in which "its source" is being used and avoid overgeneralization. Consider alternatives like "its origin" or "its basis" to fine-tune the nuance of your writing. By following these guidelines, you can effectively and accurately use the phrase "its source" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

its origin

Focuses specifically on the point or place from which something begins, akin to tracing back to "its source".

its basis

Emphasizes the foundation or fundamental principle upon which something is established, similar to understanding "its source".

its derivation

Highlights the process or manner in which something originates or is obtained, analogous to identifying "its source".

its provenance

Refers to the history of ownership or origin of something, particularly relevant in art or antiques, akin to knowing "its source".

its root

Indicates the fundamental cause or origin of something, often used metaphorically, similar to tracing back to "its source".

its wellspring

Implies a plentiful or never-ending supply or origin, somewhat more figurative than directly referring to "its source".

its point of origin

More explicitly specifies the exact location or moment from which something starts, compared to simply stating "its source".

its causal factor

Specifically refers to the cause that produces an effect, more focused on causality than simply identifying "its source".

its foundation

Highlights the underlying structure or support, rather than the absolute beginning indicated by "its source".

the reason for it

Shifts the focus to the explanation or justification behind something, not necessarily where it originated like "its source".

FAQs

How can I use "its source" in a sentence?

You can use "its source" to refer to the origin or cause of something. For example: "The river is known for the purity of "its source"", or "The investigation aims to identify "its source" of funding".

What phrases are similar in meaning to "its source"?

Phrases with similar meanings to "its source" include "its origin", "its basis", "its derivation", or "its provenance". The choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "its source" in formal writing?

Yes, "its source" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a clear and concise way to indicate the origin or cause of something and is commonly used in academic, professional, and journalistic contexts.

What's the difference between "its source" and "its sources"?

"Its source" refers to a single origin or cause, while "its sources" refers to multiple origins or causes. For example: "The rumor had "its source" in a miscommunication", versus "The essay drew information from "its sources", including several academic journals".