key source

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key source" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an important or primary origin of information, data, or resources in various contexts, such as research, reporting, or analysis. Example: "The study identified several key sources of information that contributed to the findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They are a key source of demand for new development".

The New York Times

"He was certainly a key source for Sorkin," he said.

The Guardian - Film

Work is also a key source of status and identity.

The Guardian

Another key source of financial support comes from Sears itself.

The New York Times

Families are a key source of capital, contacts and customers.

The Economist

Akin also apparently lost a key source of funding.

Independent

Carriers of Neisseria meningitidis are a key source of transmission.

Journal of Infection

Tamil Nadu, a vast state with an immensely rich religious cultural heritage, is a key source.

The Guardian

The first was to change taxation rules to permit venture capital, a key source of financing.

The Guardian

The rural vision remains the key source of the nation's identity.

The Guardian - Books

Captured oil fields have been a key source of funding for Isis.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When identifying the main origin of information or funding, use "key source" to clearly communicate its importance.

Common error

Avoid using "key source" as a generic label. Always specify why the source is key and how it contributes to the subject matter.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key source" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in identifying the primary origin or basis of something. The expression often appears when designating critical information points.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "key source" is a versatile and commonly used expression to denote the primary origin or basis of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely accepted across diverse contexts, including news, science, and business. While alternatives like "primary origin" or "main source" exist, "key source" effectively communicates the essential role of a particular entity or element. When using this phrase, ensure that you clearly specify why the source is considered key to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

central source

Highlights the focal or most important origin.

main source

Highlights the principal or most important origin.

principal source

Emphasizes the chief or leading origin.

chief origin

Stresses the foremost or dominant origin.

primary origin

Focuses on the point of commencement or derivation, emphasizing the beginning.

vital source

Indicates that the origin is necessary or critical.

essential origin

Implies that the origin is indispensable or crucial.

fundamental source

Highlights the underlying or foundational origin.

primary basis

Focuses on the foundational support or justification.

core origin

Emphasizes the central or innermost origin.

FAQs

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

You can use "key source" to indicate the primary origin of something, as in "The library is a "key source" of information for students."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "key source"?

Alternatives include "primary origin", "main source", or "principal source", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "key source" formal or informal?

The phrase "key source" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but it's often preferred in more professional or academic writing.

What's the difference between "key source" and "important source"?

"Key source" implies a more fundamental or essential role than "important source". A "key source" is often the primary or most critical origin, while an important source might be one of many significant contributors.