reference source

USAGE SUMMARY

"reference source" is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English.
You can use it whenever you need to refer to a source of information, such as a book, article, website, or other media. For example, "According to a recent reference source, the global pandemic is likely to continue into 2021."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Her reference source: urbandictionary.com.com

The New York Times

File of reference source positions.

Harvard University

The show's catalog remains a reference source.

The New York Times

Identify and compare a reference source in each media.

The New York Times

The global reach of the reference source is unparalleled.

Nature

A useful reference source citing, 1,797 annotated items.

Yale University

Valuable reference source for the twentieth-century theater.

Yale University

He also edited three volumes of "The Proteins," a standard reference source published by Academic Press.

The New York Times

The book has long been an essential reference source for Mexican costume.

The New York Times - Travel

Discrete Fourier Transformation is used to generate reference source current.

Energy Procedia

But then I wouldn't have thought of using Wikipedia as a serious reference source.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "reference source", ensure that you clearly identify the specific source being referenced to maintain credibility and allow readers to verify the information.

Common error

Avoid using "reference source" without specifying which source you are referring to. For example, instead of saying "According to a reference source...", specify the source, such as "According to The New York Times..."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reference source" functions as a noun phrase, identifying a specific origin of information. Ludwig's examples show it commonly denotes where facts, data, or expertise are derived. The phrase itself is grammatically sound, as verified by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

36%

News & Media

30%

Science

29%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "reference source" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that denotes an origin of information. As Ludwig confirms, its usage is widespread across various domains, including academia, news, and science. When using this phrase, clarity is key; specifying the source enhances credibility. Alternative phrases like "information source" or "authority" can be used depending on the context. Remember, while convenience sources like Wikipedia can be helpful, always verify with more authoritative sources to ensure accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

source of information

A more verbose but equally valid way of expressing the original phrase's meaning.

information source

Emphasizes the role of the source as a provider of information.

data source

Highlights that the source provides data, often used in technical contexts.

authority

Focuses on the reliability and expertise of the source.

resource material

Suggests the source provides materials for study or reference.

primary source

Specifies that the source is original or firsthand.

research material

Indicates material used for conducting research or investigation.

cited work

Indicates a source that has been explicitly mentioned in support of a claim.

basis for reference

Indicates the source serves as a foundation or starting point for information.

point of reference

Implies the source provides a specific point of comparison or verification.

FAQs

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

You can use "reference source" to indicate where you obtained information. For example, "Wikipedia is often used as a quick "reference source", but it's important to verify the information with more reliable sources."

What is a reliable "reference source"?

A reliable "reference source" is one that is accurate, unbiased, and well-researched. Examples include academic journals, reputable news organizations, and established encyclopedias.

What can I say instead of "reference source"?

You can use alternatives like "information source", "data source", or "authority" depending on the context.

Is it okay to use Wikipedia as a "reference source"?

While Wikipedia can be a convenient starting point, it's generally not considered a definitive "reference source" for academic or professional work due to its open editing model. Always cross-reference information with more authoritative sources.