suspicious origin

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "suspicious origin" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has a source or background that raises doubts or concerns about its legitimacy or trustworthiness. Example: "The artifact was found in a remote location, raising questions about its suspicious origin."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Officials said the fire was of suspicious origin.

The New York Times

"You look just like your mother," he says, "who looks just like a fireof suspicious origin".

The New Yorker

Museums were urged to examine all objects of suspicious origin; the forgery ring, the IAA cautioned, spanned 20 years.

The Guardian - Arts

While arson was not being ruled out, officials who examined the wreckage said there were no immediate indications of any suspicious origin.

The New York Times

This was the second fire of suspicious origin related to the discount cigarette business on the wooded 55-acre Poospatuck reservation, sovereign domain of the Unkechaug nation, one of two state-recognized Indian tribes on Long Island.

The New York Times

Another question in this context is why banks only ever find those monies, or realise that they may be of suspicious origin, after foreign leaders have fallen from grace.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

A FinCEN source says that $20bn already examined appears to have "suspicious origins".

The Guardian

Tells about the suspicious origins of the Greek vase recently acquired by the Metropolitan Museum & about the Raphael acquired by the Boston Fine Arts Museum, which subsequently returned the painting when it learned it had been stolen.

The New Yorker

After the destruction of the Belmont meetinghouse by a fire of suspicious origins in 1984, he forged links with other religious institutions, allowing the congregation to rotate its meetings to other houses of worship during the reconstruction of their building.

Wikipedia

However, the authorities said that the fire, first reported at 2 32 yesterday afternoon, did not appear suspicious in origin.

The New York Times

Regardless of whether the money is authentic, the fact that it was hidden so well and found in relatively small denominations suggests that it is highly suspicious in origin, current and former government officials said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing events like fires or financial irregularities, use "suspicious origin" to indicate a potential deliberate cause or illicit activity.

Common error

While "suspicious origin" is appropriate for formal reporting, avoid using it in casual conversation; opt for simpler terms like "fishy source" or "questionable beginning."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "suspicious origin" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, typically to indicate that the source or beginning of something is questionable or evokes mistrust. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "suspicious origin" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe something with a questionable or untrustworthy source, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its usage is most common in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. While effective in formal writing and reporting, it is less suited for informal conversation. Consider alternatives like "questionable source" or "dubious beginning" in different scenarios. Understanding its appropriate context will improve clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Questionable source

Focuses on the source of something being dubious.

Dubious beginning

Highlights the uncertain or doubtful start of something.

Uncertain provenance

Emphasizes the unknown or unclear history of something's origin.

Mysterious source

Suggests the origin is shrouded in mystery.

Shady source

Implies the origin is untrustworthy or potentially illegal.

Fishy source

Informal way to say the origin seems suspicious.

Contested origin

Highlights the origin is under dispute.

Illegitimate origin

Highlights the lack of legal authority.

Dodgy source

Emphasizes the origin is low quality and probably unreliable.

Inconclusive origin

Highlights the lack of certainty in the origin.

FAQs

How can I use "suspicious origin" in a sentence?

You can use "suspicious origin" to describe events or objects where the cause or source is questionable. For example: "The fire was ruled to be of "suspicious origin" due to the presence of accelerants."

What are some alternatives to "suspicious origin"?

Alternatives include "questionable source", "dubious beginning", or "uncertain provenance", depending on the specific context.

Is "suspicious origin" formal or informal?

"Suspicious origin" is generally considered a neutral to formal term. It's suitable for news reports, academic papers, and professional communications. Simpler terms may be preferred in informal settings.

What does it mean when something is described as having a "suspicious origin"?

It means that the source or cause of something is not clear and raises concerns or doubts. It implies there may be something hidden or potentially illegal about the origin.