only source

USAGE SUMMARY

"only source" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the single or primary source of information or knowledge about a particular topic. Example: "The internet is my only source of information about ancient Greek mythology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Clocks aren't my only source of happiness.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Caddying is his only source of income.

The New York Times

Bannon wasn't Wolff's only source, though.

The New Yorker

Clearly, Socrates, that is the only source.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Layoffs weren't the only source of tension.

The New York Times - Magazine

Yahoo is not the only source for shopping cart software.

The New York Times

Norbury's miscarriage is not the only source of her pain.

The Guardian - Books

Government financing is not the only source of aid.

The New York Times

Visitors are often the only source of accident information.

The New York Times - Tech

Nor was this her only source of Fiverr income.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But news releases were hardly the only source of information.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "only source", ensure that it is indeed the sole origin or provider, as overuse can diminish the impact of the statement. For instance, in academic writing, verify claims of being the "only source" with thorough research.

Common error

Avoid using "only source" when other potential origins or providers exist, even if they are less significant. Instead, use "primary source" or "main source" to acknowledge other influences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only source" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, highlighting its role in identifying the sole origin or provider of something, as showcased in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "only source" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for pinpointing the unique origin of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions mainly as a noun phrase across various contexts, particularly in news and media, academic research, and formal business communications. When employing this phrase, ensure that the source is indeed the single origin to avoid overstating its exclusivity. Consider alternatives like "sole source" or "primary source" if other sources exist but are less significant. Mastering this nuance will enhance the precision and credibility of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

only origin

Directly replaces "source" with "origin", maintaining the same meaning.

sole origin

Similar to 'sole source', emphasizes the exclusivity in terms of origination.

sole source

Emphasizes the exclusivity of the source, implying that it is the single, solitary provider.

single source

Simply denotes that there is only one origin or provider.

unique source

Highlights the unparalleled and irreplaceable nature of the source.

one and only source

Adds emphasis to the singularity and uniqueness of the source.

exclusive source

Stresses that the source is not available from any other place.

primary source

Indicates the most important or fundamental origin, though other sources may exist.

definitive source

Implies the source is the most reliable and authoritative.

main source

Highlights the principal origin, suggesting it is the most significant one.

FAQs

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

The phrase "only source" is used to indicate that there is just one origin or provider of something. For example, "For many, the only source of money is to beg."

What are some alternatives to "only source"?

You can use alternatives such as "sole source", "unique source", or "primary source" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "only source" or "sole source"?

"Only source" and "sole source" are largely interchangeable, though "sole source" might carry a slightly stronger emphasis on exclusivity.

What's the difference between "primary source" and "only source"?

Primary source indicates the most important origin, while "only source" means there are no other origins at all. The phrase "primary source" doesn't exclude the existence of other origins, unlike "only source".