the major source of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the major source of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when identifying the primary origin or contributor of something, such as information, resources, or problems. Example: "The major source of pollution in the city is the heavy traffic from vehicles."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Currently, the major source of energy in Kenya is hydropower.

The Guardian

Today, though, Beijing remained the major source of concern.

The New York Times

The major source of revenue, however, was television.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The major source of satisfaction in our work is intrinsic.

The New York Times

He runs a sprawling telecoms empire, Digicel, which is the major source of his wealth.

The Guardian

Nonrenewable aquifers are the major source of water in Saudi Arabia.

The Guardian

The major source of apprehension among some of Reagan's advisers is the economy.

The New Yorker

(C) soared 19-fold and become the major source of the world's heroin.

The New York Times

Frequently, Republicans assert that domestic discretionary spending is the major source of bloated government.

The New York Times

Taxes are the major source of revenue for all levels of government.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This once again points to Antarctica as the major source of Eemian sea level rise.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the major source of", ensure that you are accurately identifying the most significant contributor or origin, not just a notable one. Quantifiable data can strengthen your claim.

Common error

Avoid using "the major source of" if the contribution is only marginally larger than other sources. Qualify your statement if other sources are also significant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the major source of" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically identifying and emphasizing the primary origin or contributor of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely accepted and used in English writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

51%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

11%

Plosone

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the major source of" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase that effectively identifies the primary origin or contributor of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It appears most frequently in science and news contexts, demonstrating its versatility. When employing this phrase, ensure accuracy in identifying the most significant source and avoid overstating its importance. Alternatives like "the primary origin of" or "the leading contributor to" can be used for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the primary origin of

Replaces 'major' with 'primary', emphasizing the fundamental nature of the origin.

the principal cause of

Substitutes 'source' with 'cause', focusing on the reason behind something.

the leading contributor to

Uses 'contributor' instead of 'source', highlighting the active role in providing something.

the mainspring of

A more figurative way to express the primary driving force.

the key factor in

Shifts the focus to the most important element contributing to a result.

the predominant reason for

Emphasizes the most noticeable reason behind something.

the foremost generator of

Highlights the creation or production aspect of the source.

the prime mover of

Implies the initial or fundamental force behind an action or event.

the root of

Focuses on the underlying cause or origin, often implying a deeper issue.

the wellspring of

Suggests a source that is abundant and continuously providing.

FAQs

How can I use "the major source of" in a sentence?

Use "the major source of" to identify the primary origin or cause of something. For example, "Sunlight is the "major source of" vitamin D for humans."

What are some alternatives to using "the major source of"?

You can use alternatives such as "the primary origin of", "the principal cause of", or "the leading contributor to" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "the major source of" versus "a source of"?

"The major source of" should be used when identifying the single most significant contributor, while "a source of" is appropriate when referring to one of multiple contributors.

Is "main source" the same as "the major source of"?

Yes, "main source" and "the major source of" are often used interchangeably to indicate the primary origin or cause. However, "the major source of" might imply a more substantial or impactful contribution than "main source".