primary source of information

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "primary source of information" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to the main or most important source of information for a particular topic or subject. Example: "The library's archive of original letters and documents from the time period is considered the primary source of information for researchers studying the Civil War."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Net also became a primary source of information during the initial SARS outbreak.

The New York Times

The primary source of information for the average Afghan is the radio, often a transistor made 30 years ago.

The New York Times

Politico reported that Trump was most successful in the emerging news deserts where social-media sites are people's primary source of information.

The New Yorker

Those answering calls use the website as their primary source of information, and can quickly spot problems with the site and pass them onto their technical colleagues.

The Guardian

The primary source of information comes only from the vendor, and the vendor has a conflict of interest in telling you the truth.

The New York Times - Magazine

Their primary source of information was a detailed ethnographic description of over 1,200 language groups across the world.

The Economist

The photographs and letters he collected from the Nyack house remain a primary source of information about Hopper's life.

The New York Times - Arts

And it is worth pointing out that they serve as a primary source of information for many viewers.

The New York Times

Although the text lacks literary polish, it is simple and direct; and, as the earliest Gospel, it is the primary source of information about the ministry of Jesus.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"There were occasions when newspaper coverage shaped the wider media agenda, including the evening bulletins – still overwhelmingly the primary source of information for most voters," Dr Cushion said.

Independent

Fox's primary source of information, as noted in a follow-up defense of his work, was a report in the Denton Record Chronicle by Peggy Heinkel-Wolfe.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing academically or professionally, clearly identify the "primary source of information" to establish credibility and transparency. For example, cite specific research papers, databases, or expert interviews.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on interpretations from secondary sources. Always consult the "primary source of information" to ensure accuracy and avoid potential misrepresentations or biases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "primary source of information" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the most important or original origin of data or knowledge. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

35%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "primary source of information" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that refers to the main or original origin of data or knowledge. According to Ludwig AI, it's widely employed across diverse fields like science, news, and academia, maintaining a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, clearly identify the specific source to enhance credibility. Avoid over-reliance on secondary interpretations, ensuring you consult the "primary source of information" itself to maintain accuracy. While many alternative phrases exist, each offers a subtle shift in emphasis, so choose carefully to align with your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main information resource

Focuses on the resource aspect, emphasizing the role as a provider.

key data origin

Highlights the origin aspect, specifying it relates to data.

principal information provider

Emphasizes the role of supplying information.

chief knowledge base

Shifts focus to knowledge and the idea of a repository.

leading information authority

Stresses expertise and credibility of the source.

central data repository

Highlights the storage and accessibility of data.

fundamental information basis

Focuses on the foundational nature of the information.

core informational foundation

Emphasizes the grounding or base that the information provides.

essential details resource

Focuses on the details provided by the resource being vital.

go-to source for data

More informal, indicating a frequently consulted source.

FAQs

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

Use "primary source of information" to identify the main origin of data or knowledge. For example, "The annual report serves as the "primary source of information" for investors."

What's the difference between "primary source of information" and "secondary source of information"?

"Primary source of information" refers to the original source, while a secondary source analyzes or interprets it. For example, a historical document is a primary source, and a textbook analyzing that document is a secondary source.

What are some examples of what can be considered a "primary source of information"?

Examples include original research papers, official documents, firsthand accounts, raw data, and artifacts. Essentially, it's the unfiltered, direct origin of the information.

Which sources are most reliable as a "primary source of information"?

Reliability depends on the context. Academic research relies on peer-reviewed publications. News reporting relies on reputable news organizations. Personal experiences are valid as a "primary source of information", but can be subjective.