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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
source document
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "source document" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to an original document that provides information or evidence for a particular purpose, such as research or legal matters. Example: "Please ensure that you reference the source document when compiling your report to maintain accuracy."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Academia
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
56 human-written examples
Consolidating all the documentation formats into a single source document makes the documentation set easier to maintain.
(See primary source document: Inaugural Address).
Encyclopedias
A link to a low-quality document reduces the effective quality of the source document.
News & Media
Without archiving, no one knows what the primary source document is.
News & Media
Evaluation methods included a systematic literature review, archival source document review, and key informant interviews.
MacLean, B. et al. Skyline: an open source document editor for creating and analyzing targeted proteomics experiments.
Science & Research
MacLean, B. et al. Skyline: an open source document editor for creating and analysing targeted proteomics experiments.
Science & Research
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
4 human-written examples
MongoDB is an open source, document-oriented database designed with both scalability and developer agility in mind.
News & Media
After that, the design will be put online as an open-source document for people to download.
News & Media
Steven A. Mills, senior vice president of I.B.M.s software group, said the programs promote an open-source document format.
News & Media
Dwight is one of the original authors of MongoDB, the open-source document database.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Always cite the "source document" to ensure credibility and avoid plagiarism. Providing a direct link or reference allows others to verify your information.
Common error
Always check for revisions or updates to the "source document". Information can change, and using outdated material can lead to inaccuracies.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "source document" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a specific type of document that serves as an original or primary source of information. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a standard and usable term in English.
Frequent in
Science
33%
News & Media
31%
Academia
21%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
8%
Wiki
4%
Formal & Business
3%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "source document" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that refers to an original document providing information. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in various contexts. It is most frequently encountered in scientific, news and media, and academic fields. When writing, it’s crucial to cite the "source document" to ensure credibility, while also being mindful of potential updates in the original material. Alternatives such as "original document" or "primary document" can be used depending on the specific emphasis desired.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
original document
Replaces 'source' with 'original', emphasizing the document's status as the first or earliest version.
primary document
Substitutes 'source' with 'primary', highlighting the document's importance as a main or fundamental reference.
reference document
Focuses on the document's role as a point of reference for information or verification.
supporting document
Emphasizes the document's function in providing evidence or backing for a claim or argument.
base document
Highlights that the document serves as the starting point or foundation for further work or analysis.
underlying document
Indicates the document provides the fundamental details or context, which might not be immediately apparent.
initial record
Shifts focus to the document as a record and emphasizes that it is the first one.
master document
Suggests the document is the definitive or controlling version.
root document
Implies the document is the origin from which subsequent versions or analyses stem.
authoritative source
Emphasizes the reliability and credibility of the source of information, rather than the document itself.
FAQs
How do you properly cite a "source document"?
The citation style depends on the context (MLA, APA, Chicago, etc.). Generally, include the author, title, date, and publication information. For online documents, add the URL and access date.
What's the difference between a "source document" and a secondary source?
A "source document" is an original record (like a diary or official report). A secondary source analyzes or interprets those original records.
What can I use instead of "source document"?
You can use alternatives like "original document", "primary document", or "reference document" depending on the context.
In clinical trials, what is the importance of the "source document"?
In clinical trials, the "source document" serves as the original record of patient data, ensuring accuracy and integrity in research findings. It is essential for "source document verification" (SDV).
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested