sources indicated that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sources indicated that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referencing information or findings that have been reported or suggested by various sources, such as studies, articles, or expert opinions. Example: "Sources indicated that the new policy would lead to a significant reduction in costs for the company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Backed up by new constitutional guarantees, Brown hinted, too, at giving the Scottish parliament greater power over the railways; party sources indicated that could allow a future Scottish government to bring rail services into some form of public ownership.

The Guardian

Two sources indicated that additional guilty pleas and indictments might be forthcoming.

Los Angeles Times

Several sources indicated that lack of health-care access encouraged alternative health-seeking behaviours.

Health Policy and Planning

Microbiological testing of 11 unchlorinated piped water sources indicated that 7 were positive for an indicator of fecal contamination (E. coli).

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Government sources indicated that changes would be considered.

The Guardian

But sources indicated that relations would be patched up.

The Guardian

Downing Street sources indicated that the prime minister was not signalling a change of tack.

The Guardian

Government sources indicated that ministers considered the plans thoughtful but ambitious and costly.

The Guardian

SEC sources indicated that Mrs Madoff would soon experience something similar.

The Guardian - Business

Liberal Democrat sources indicated that the party's headquarters, in nearby Cowley Street, had not been targeted.

The Guardian

Later party sources indicated that figure could be optimistic on a "devastating" night.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sources indicated that", ensure the sources are credible and, if possible, specify the type or origin of the sources (e.g., "government sources", "scientific studies") to enhance the authority of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "sources indicated that" without providing any specifics about the nature or reliability of the sources. Overuse of vague sourcing can weaken your argument and make your writing less persuasive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sources indicated that" functions as an introductory clause to report information attributed to unspecified sources. It serves to introduce a statement, suggestion, or finding without directly endorsing it, providing a level of detachment or indirectness. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sources indicated that" is a versatile phrase used to attribute information to unspecified sources while maintaining a degree of detachment. Ludwig AI confirms it as grammatically correct and widely used, as the analysis shows it appears most frequently in News & Media contexts, suggesting its suitability for reporting and conveying information from various origins. When using this phrase, ensure your sources are credible and specific where possible to enhance your writing's authority.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reports suggested that

Replaces "indicated" with "suggested", implying a less definitive confirmation.

reports suggested

Omits "that" for brevity, maintaining the core meaning.

it was reported that

Shifts the focus to the act of reporting, rather than the sources themselves.

studies showed that

Specifies the type of sources as "studies", suitable for academic or scientific contexts.

evidence suggested that

Highlights the evidence as the basis for the indication.

findings revealed that

Emphasizes the act of uncovering information.

the data implied that

Focuses on the data as providing an indirect suggestion.

analysts believe that

Attributes the belief to analysts, a specific group of sources.

observers noted that

Implies direct observation as the basis for the information.

it's understood that

Indicates a general understanding or consensus, without specifying particular sources.

FAQs

How can I rephrase the sentence "sources indicated that"?

You can use alternatives like "reports suggested that", "it was reported that", or "studies showed that" depending on the context.

Is "sources indicated that" formal or informal?

The phrase "sources indicated that" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, its formality also depends on the surrounding language and the specific source being referenced.

When is it appropriate to use "sources indicated that"?

It's appropriate to use "sources indicated that" when you want to convey information that has been suggested or reported by various sources, but you don't want to make a definitive statement or take direct responsibility for the information.

What kind of sources should I cite when using "sources indicated that"?

When using "sources indicated that", try to cite credible and verifiable sources such as news articles, academic papers, or official reports. Avoid using unreliable or anonymous sources if possible.