key source of information

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key source of information" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an important or primary origin of data or knowledge on a particular subject. Example: "The research paper identified several key sources of information that contributed to the findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

Television, the key source of information for 80percentt of Russians, according to Levada, invigorates this trend.

The New York Times

That makes the validity of the company's accounts themselves questionable as the key source of information for shareholders at the AGM to exercise class rights.

The Guardian - Business

The other key contradictions that have arisen pit Radomski against George J. Mitchell, the former senator who used Radomski as a key source of information in the December 2007 report he produced on the use of performance-enhancing drugs.

The New York Times - Sports

2. Consider journalistic ethics surrounding the identification of a key source of information about Watergate by reading and discussing the article "In the Prelude to Publication, Intrigue Worthy of Deep Throat".

The New York Times

One key source of information was the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum in Centerport, the onetime estate of William K. Vanderbilt Jr., the railroad heir and sportsman who initiated the rallies.

The New York Times

The former head of the South African secret service, Mo Shaik, a close ally of the president, Jacob Zuma, was described as a US confidant and key source of information on "the Zuma camp" in a leaked 2008 Wikileaks cable from the American embassy in Pretoria.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

These attacks temporarily denied access by the governments and citizens of those countries to key sources of information and to internal and external communications.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"The National Survey is one of our key sources of information on people's views and circumstances".

BBC

Three key sources of information include Web engines like eHealthinsurance.com; insurance brokers who work with multiple carriers; and the carriers themselves.

Forbes

Three key sources of information include Web search engines like eHealthinsurance.com, insurance brokers that work with multiple carriers, and the insurance companies themselves.

Forbes

Sub-elite referees have acquired less experience and still have to learn to pay attention to the key sources of information (MacMahon et al., 2014).

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "key source of information", ensure that the source is indeed crucial and reliable to maintain credibility. Avoid overusing this phrase; vary your language to keep your writing engaging.

Common error

Avoid labeling every source as a "key source of information". Reserve this term for sources that have a significant and direct impact on your understanding or analysis. Otherwise, use less emphatic terms like "a source of information" or "an important reference".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key source of information" functions as a noun phrase identifying a particularly important origin or resource of knowledge. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, from news reporting to scientific research, confirming its role in highlighting crucial informational origins.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "key source of information" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to emphasize the importance and reliability of an information source. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is acceptable for use across various contexts, particularly in scientific and news-related writing. While the phrase is useful, be mindful of overusing it and ensure that the identified source truly warrants such emphasis. Consider alternatives like "primary resource" or "essential basis" to vary your writing and avoid redundancy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary information resource

Replaces "source" with "resource" and "key" with "primary" to emphasize importance.

major data provider

Focuses on the provision of "data" rather than general "information", suggesting a more structured input.

essential informational basis

Highlights the foundational role of the information.

critical knowledge origin

Replaces "source of information" with a more concise phrase, emphasizing the importance of the knowledge.

leading intelligence provider

Implies a more active role in providing information, often in a strategic context.

vital data repository

Suggests a stored collection of data that serves as a key resource.

fundamental learning resource

Emphasizes the educational aspect of the information source.

significant fact provider

Highlights the provision of factual information.

principal informant

Shifts the focus to a person or entity providing information.

central knowledge bank

Implies a centralized location for gathering information.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "key source of information" in a sentence?

Use "key source of information" to emphasize the importance and reliability of the resource you're referencing. For example: "The National Archives served as a "key source of information" for the historian's research."

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

You can use alternatives such as "primary information resource", "essential informational basis", or "critical knowledge origin" depending on the context.

Is "key source of information" formal enough for academic writing?

Yes, "key source of information" is suitable for academic writing. However, consider using more specific or technical terms if appropriate for your field. For instance, "primary source" or "seminal work" might be more precise.

When should I avoid using "key source of information"?

Avoid using "key source of information" when the source is minor, unreliable, or not directly relevant to your main argument. Instead, opt for phrases that accurately reflect the source's contribution.