substantial source

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "substantial source" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a significant or important origin of information, resources, or materials. Example: "The research paper cites a substantial source that provides valuable insights into the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The workers were really looking to Noche as a substantial source of employment.

The New York Times

I can't deny that Hershey's Kisses were a substantial source of happiness in my childhood.

The New Yorker

She could find no substantial source material to suggest that Boulanger ever actually existed.

Independent

"Al-Jazeera's ability to influence public opinion throughout the region is a substantial source of leverage for Qatar," he wrote.

The Guardian

He said he suspected that the fines were a substantial source of revenue for governments in poor parts of China.

The New York Times

Take away paying opportunities and our free galleries will lose a substantial source of income and growth.

Independent

These "green collar" jobs are manufacturing-heavy and export-driven and represent a substantial source of growth.

The New York Times

For its part, Columbia House, with annual revenue around $1.4 billion, has long been a substantial source of cash for Sony and Time Warner.

The New York Times

He went on: "Al-Jazeera's ability to influence public opinion throughout the region is a substantial source of leverage for Qatar, one which it is unlikely to relinquish.

The Guardian

The coffee not only provides a substantial source of income to the tribe, but has won nods from the Specialty Coffee Association of Europe.

The Guardian - Travel

The trading became a substantial source of revenue at banks and hedge funds, which vigilantly guard the code underpinning their lucrative trading strategies.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "substantial source", ensure that the source you are referring to is genuinely significant in terms of its impact, quantity, or reliability. Avoid using it for minor or trivial sources.

Common error

Avoid using "substantial source" to describe something that is only a minor or secondary contributor. Overstating the importance can undermine the credibility of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantial source" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI shows it correctly describes the origin or cause of something significant.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "substantial source" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a significant origin or cause. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various domains. Predominantly found in science and news media, it maintains a neutral to formal register. When employing this phrase, ensure that the source genuinely warrants such emphasis. Remember that overstating the importance of a source can diminish credibility. Alternatives include "significant origin" or "major contributor", each subtly altering the emphasis. By keeping these considerations in mind, you can effectively incorporate this phrase into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant origin

Replaces "source" with "origin", emphasizing the point of commencement or derivation.

major contributor

Shifts the focus to the idea of contributing significantly to something.

primary resource

Highlights the role of being a fundamental resource for something.

key component

Emphasizes that it's a crucial element that is part of a larger entity or system.

essential element

Indicates that it is indispensable and vital for a specific purpose.

important foundation

Stresses that it serves as a crucial base or groundwork.

notable influence

Switches the focus to the act of influence of something instead of a source.

considerable factor

Focuses on the aspect of being a substantial element impacting an outcome.

valuable asset

Highlights the quality of being a beneficial and prized possession.

dependable provider

Shifts to indicate consistent and reliable supply.

FAQs

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

You can use "substantial source" to indicate a significant origin or cause, as in "The river is a "major source" of irrigation for the region" or "Her experience was a "valuable asset" to the project".

What are some alternatives to "substantial source"?

Alternatives include "significant origin", "major contributor", "primary resource", and "key component", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "substantial source" and "significant source"?

While similar, "substantial source" implies a larger quantity or greater impact compared to "significant source", although they are often interchangeable.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "substantial source"?

"Substantial source" is appropriate in academic, scientific, news, and business contexts when emphasizing the considerable importance or size of the source being discussed.