Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
the source of this is
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "the source of this is" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate where information, data, or a particular idea originates from. Example: "In the report, the source of this is a study conducted by the National Institute of Health."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
4 human-written examples
"The source of this is that some American figures have made statements that interfere with the results of the democratic process," he added.
News & Media
The source of this is that patriarchal society defines woman as object, as a mere body, and that in sexist society women are in fact frequently regarded by others as objects and mere bodies" (Young 1990b, 155).
Science
"My lawyers have informed me that the source of this is Americans United for Life which is an anti-abortion group so I would check your source". .
News & Media
The source of this is unclear, but may be caused by further residual unligated indexes in our sample prior to PCR enrichment, a different rate of "jumping PCR" due to innate differences in polymerases used (Amplitaq Gold by Kircher vs. the TruSeq kit reagents), or perhaps erroneous array calls.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
54 human-written examples
The source of this was child-assessor and residual error.
Science
The source of this isolate is being investigated.
Science
The likelihood that Russian hackers were the source of this information is high, and none of these leaked emails have been verified in any way.
News & Media
The wishful thinking that is the source of this credulity is, of course, a prelude to disappointment if our candidate actually gets elected.
News & Media
The source of this specimen is unknown, but thought to be Antongil Bay.
Wiki
The source of this bias is likely that providers tend to be disease focused.
Science
The source of this surprise is the European Union's competition policy, which is full of contradictory goals.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using the phrase "the source of this is", ensure that you clearly identify what "this" refers to in your sentence to avoid ambiguity.
Common error
Avoid using "the source of this is" when "this" is unclear or too general. Always ensure "this" has a clear, specific antecedent in your writing.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "the source of this is" functions as a linking phrase, connecting an effect or situation to its origin or cause. It serves to introduce an explanation or justification for something. As seen in Ludwig, this phrase is found in diverse contexts to pinpoint where something begins or originates.
Frequent in
News & Media
33%
Science
33%
Formal & Business
33%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "the source of this is" serves as a bridge connecting an event, idea, or problem to its origin. Ludwig highlights that this phrase, deemed grammatically correct, finds its place in diverse contexts, ranging from news reports to scientific publications. While its usage is not exceedingly frequent, it provides a clear and direct way to identify the roots of an issue. When employing this phrase, clarity is key: ensure the "this" is clearly defined to prevent any ambiguity. As Ludwig examples show, this simple phrase can effectively introduce clarity and understanding to complex scenarios.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
the origin of this is
Replaces "source" with "origin", focusing on the beginning or derivation of something.
the cause of this is
Directly identifies the reason or event that produces a particular result or phenomenon.
this stems from
Implies that something originates or develops from a particular source or cause.
this arises from
Suggests that something emerges or comes into existence as a result of a particular cause or situation.
this derives from
Indicates that something originates or is obtained from a specific source.
the root of this is
Emphasizes the fundamental cause or origin of something, often implying a deeper or more underlying issue.
this is attributable to
Indicates that something can be regarded as having been caused by a particular person or thing.
the basis for this is
Highlights the fundamental reason or foundation upon which something is based.
this can be traced to
Suggests that the origins or development of something can be followed back to a particular source.
this results from
Focuses on the outcome or consequence of a particular cause or action.
FAQs
What does "the source of this is" mean?
The phrase "the source of this is" indicates the origin, cause, or starting point of something. It's used to explain where information, a problem, or a situation comes from.
How can I use "the source of this is" in a sentence?
Use "the source of this is" to introduce the origin or cause of a particular issue or piece of information. For example, "The source of this confusion is the lack of clear instructions."
What are some alternatives to "the source of this is"?
Alternatives to "the source of this is" include "the origin of this is", "this stems from", or "the cause of this is", depending on the context.
Is it better to say "the source of this is" or "this originates from"?
Both "the source of this is" and "this originates from" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis. "This originates from" may sound slightly more formal.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested