primary source

USAGE SUMMARY

"primary source" is an appropriate and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to refer to a document or other piece of evidence that provides first-hand information about a subject. For example, "The primary source for this research is a collection of eyewitness accounts from the early 1900s."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

(See primary source document: Inaugural Address).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Goya was an obvious, primary source.

The New York Times - Arts

Hip-hop is a primary source of this new music.

The New York Times - Arts

The primary source was the imprisoned dictator himself.

The Guardian

Was that structure informed by the primary source material?

The Guardian - Books

And our primary source, at present, is fossil fuel.

The Guardian

What is the primary source of mercury pollution?

The Guardian - Opinion

(McBurney's primary source is Petru Popescu's nonfiction account, Amazon Beaming).

The Guardian

The fee is Digital Convergence's primary source of revenue.

The New York Times

There are also primary source documents from WikiLeaks.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Newspapers remain the primary source of news-gathering in America.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "primary source" in academic writing, clearly identify the specific document or artifact you are referencing to enhance the credibility of your research.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on secondary sources when primary sources are available. Direct engagement with primary materials provides a more nuanced and informed understanding of the subject matter.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "primary source" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it effectively conveys the idea of an original or foundational piece of evidence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "primary source" is a common noun phrase that indicates an original or foundational piece of evidence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical standing. As showcased by Ludwig's examples, its usage spans across diverse contexts, notably in news, scientific, and encyclopedic domains. To enhance your writing, clearly identify the specific document or artifact you're referencing. Alternatives include "original source" or "firsthand account", depending on your context. Remember to avoid over-reliance on secondary materials when

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

original source

Focuses on the authenticity and lack of alteration from its initial state.

firsthand account

Emphasizes direct personal experience or observation of an event.

initial source

Highlights the starting point or beginning of something.

original document

Specifically refers to a written record in its unaltered form.

direct evidence

Stresses the straightforward and unambiguous nature of the proof.

mainspring

Highlights the principal motive, cause, or influence.

chief source

Emphasizes the prominence and importance of the origin.

core ingredient

Highlights the fundamental component of something.

principal root

Focuses on the fundamental reason, cause, or beginning.

key foundation

Highlights the basis that supports or justifies something.

FAQs

How is a "primary source" different from a secondary source?

A "primary source" provides firsthand evidence about an event or topic, while a secondary source offers analysis or interpretation of primary sources.

What are some examples of "primary sources"?

Examples include diaries, letters, original manuscripts, photographs, and official documents. These provide direct insights without interpretation.

Where can I find reliable "primary sources" for research?

Libraries, archives, and online databases often host collections of "primary source" materials. Ensure the source is credible and properly cited.

What can I say instead of "primary source"?

Consider using alternatives like "original source", "firsthand account", or "initial source" depending on the context.