the source of the problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"the source of the problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use "the source of the problem" to describe whatever is causing, or has caused, a problem. For example, "The source of the problem was not identified until it was too late to prevent its effects."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We know the source of the problem.

The New York Times

HT: You're the source of the problem.

The New York Times

How was the source of the problem discovered?

The New York Times

The source of the problem was the service box".

The New York Times

But the source of the problem... was the Dalai Lama.

The Guardian

Liberals have misidentified the source of the problem.

The New York Times

That's the source of the problem," said Levin.

The New York Times

And also go to the source of the problem.

The Economist

Executives said the source of the problem had been fixed.

The New York Times

According to the regulator, the source of the problem remains unknown.

The New York Times

Now I no longer regard myself as the source of the problem.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the source of the problem", ensure you clearly identify what that source is, rather than leaving it vague or undefined. This adds clarity and impact to your writing.

Common error

Avoid addressing only the symptoms of a problem without identifying and tackling "the source of the problem". Treating symptoms alone offers only temporary relief and the issue will likely resurface.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the source of the problem" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in identifying the origin or cause of an issue, aligning with Ludwig's assessment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the source of the problem" serves as a common and grammatically sound phrase used to pinpoint the origin of an issue. Ludwig's analysis affirms its correctness and applicability across diverse contexts, from news and media to scientific discourse. While alternatives like "the root cause" or "the underlying issue" offer nuanced variations, the key lies in clearly identifying and addressing the true source, rather than merely treating the symptoms. Use it to improve your written communication and clearly state the origin of a situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the root cause

This alternative emphasizes the fundamental cause that initiates the problem.

the underlying issue

This alternative highlights the hidden or less obvious nature of the problem's origin.

the origin of the difficulty

This phrase replaces "source" with "origin" and "problem" with "difficulty", softening the tone.

the reason for the trouble

This option uses more informal language, replacing "problem" with "trouble".

the heart of the matter

This idiomatic expression points to the central and most important aspect of the problem.

the key factor

Focuses on the most important element contributing to the problem.

the crux of the issue

Similar to 'heart of the matter', this highlights the most crucial point of the problem.

the starting point of the crisis

This alternative focuses on the beginning of a more serious situation.

the wellspring of the challenge

This alternative uses more metaphorical language, presenting the problem as a "challenge".

the genesis of the predicament

This option employs more formal and elevated language to describe the problem's origin.

FAQs

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

You can use "the source of the problem" to identify the origin of an issue. For example, "The investigation revealed that faulty wiring was "the source of the problem".".

What are some alternatives to saying "the source of the problem"?

Alternatives include phrases like "the root cause", "the underlying issue", or "the origin of the difficulty", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to address the symptoms or "the source of the problem"?

It is generally more effective to address ""the source of the problem"" directly. Treating symptoms may provide temporary relief, but the underlying issue will persist.

What's the difference between "the cause of the problem" and "the source of the problem"?

"The cause of the problem" and ""the source of the problem"" are often used interchangeably. However, "the source" can sometimes refer to a more fundamental or underlying origin, while "the cause" might be a more immediate trigger.