the sources of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the sources of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the origins or references of information, materials, or influences in various contexts. Example: "The sources of the data used in this research are listed in the bibliography."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But the sources of revenue are changing.

The New York Times

What are the sources of happiness?

The New Yorker

The sources of this concern are manifold.

The Guardian - Opinion

What are the sources of power?

The New York Times - Books

Wondering about the sources of Shakespeare's plays?

Britannica

The sources of each example are carefully recorded.

The Guardian - Opinion

Finding the sources of lead is also getting harder.

The New York Times

The sources of their lyric gifts are unknowable.

The New York Times - Arts

Helvey stressed the sources of momentum in a nonviolent movement.

The New York Times - Magazine

The sources of poetry are local to the poet.

The Guardian - Books

Nothing changes except the sources of the din.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the sources of", ensure clarity by specifying what originates from those sources. For example, "the sources of funding" or "the sources of information".

Common error

Avoid using "the sources of" without specifying what is being sourced. Vague usage can confuse readers. Instead of saying "the sources are unclear", specify "the sources of the data are unclear".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the sources of" functions primarily as a noun phrase acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It commonly introduces a discussion or investigation into the origins or foundations of a particular phenomenon, idea, or resource, as illustrated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

8%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the sources of" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that indicates the origin, cause, or foundation of something. According to Ludwig, it is particularly common in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what is being sourced to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "the origins of" or "the causes of" can be used depending on the specific context. The phrase maintains a neutral to formal tone, making it suitable for a wide range of writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the origins of

Focuses more specifically on the point or event from which something begins.

the causes of

Emphasizes the reasons or factors that lead to a particular outcome or situation.

the roots of

Suggests a deeper, more fundamental level of origin, often implying a complex or hidden history.

the foundations of

Highlights the underlying principles or basis upon which something is built or established.

the wellsprings of

Implies a rich and abundant source, often used metaphorically to describe inspiration or creativity.

the basis of

Refers to the core elements or information upon which something depends or is derived.

the derivation of

Highlights the process or method by which something is obtained or developed.

the genesis of

Refers to the beginning or creation of something, often used in a more formal or literary context.

the determinants of

Emphasizes the factors that decisively affect or control an outcome.

the antecedents of

Focuses on the events or conditions that precede and influence a later development.

FAQs

How can I use "the sources of" in a sentence?

Use "the sources of" to indicate where something comes from, such as "the sources of information", "the sources of funding", or "the sources of inspiration".

What phrases are similar to "the sources of"?

Alternatives include "the origins of", "the causes of", or "the basis of", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "the source of" or "the sources of"?

Use "the source of" when referring to a single origin or cause. Use "the sources of" when referring to multiple origins or causes. For example, "the source of the problem" versus "the sources of the conflict".

How do I cite "the sources of" information in academic writing?

In academic writing, always provide proper citations for the sources of information to avoid plagiarism. Use a consistent citation style such as MLA, APA, or Chicago.