true source of trouble

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "true source of trouble" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when identifying the actual cause of a problem or difficulty in a situation. Example: "After investigating the issue further, we discovered that the true source of trouble was a miscommunication between departments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Whatever one feels about the film's sexual politics, it is Jim Thompson's pulp paperback rather than Winterbottom's faithful adaptation which is the true source of the trouble.

The Guardian - Film

Instead, his aim was to show that his thesis of names, which he admitted seems to entail that the substitution of co-referring proper names within the scope of attitude verbs is legitimate, is not the true source of the trouble.

SEP

The trouble is that it is so easy to mask the true source of a computer network attack that any retaliation is fraught with uncertainty.

The New York Times

This, after all, is the true source of European unity.

The New York Times

Which is the true source of the Lawa?

The New York Times

Last, my classmates are a true source of motivation.

Yale University

That's the true source of the outrage.

Huffington Post

And that mustache is where Norris' true source of power.

Huffington Post

The only true source of power is consensus.

Huffington Post

The Spirit is the true source of "restoring right relationships".

Huffington Post

Look within to the true source of your wealth.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider if a more specific or descriptive term might provide clearer insight into the nature of the issue. E.g., "mismanagement was the true source of trouble".

Common error

Avoid attributing the problem solely to one "true source of trouble" without acknowledging other contributing factors. Complex issues often have multiple causes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "true source of trouble" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the fundamental origin or cause of a problem. As noted by Ludwig AI, it accurately pinpoints the root of a difficulty. Examples show its use in various contexts to highlight the primary reason for issues.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "true source of trouble" is a grammatically correct and usable English expression employed to identify the fundamental cause of a problem. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and applicability across various contexts. While not exceedingly common, it appears most frequently in news, scientific, and academic sources. When using this phrase, ensure accurate identification of the primary cause, and consider whether a more specific term might offer additional clarity. Alternatives like "root cause of the problem" or "underlying reason for the issue" can be used for subtle shifts in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

root cause of the problem

Focuses on identifying the fundamental cause rather than just the origin of the difficulty.

real reason behind the problem

Underscores the authenticity and accuracy of the identified cause.

core reason for the difficulty

Identifies the central or most important aspect causing trouble.

underlying reason for the issue

Emphasizes the hidden or not immediately obvious cause.

ultimate source of the problem

Focuses on the final or most distant origin of the trouble.

chief cause of the difficulty

Indicates the main or most important reason for the trouble.

primary factor in the difficulty

Highlights the most significant contributing element.

primary driver of the issue

Highlights the factor that most powerfully propels or causes the trouble.

fundamental basis of the issue

Highlights the foundational element that contributes to the trouble.

mainspring of the problem

Uses a metaphor to describe the essential mechanism causing the trouble.

FAQs

How can I use "true source of trouble" in a sentence?

You can use "true source of trouble" to identify the primary cause of a problem. For example, "After a detailed investigation, we determined that miscommunication was the "true source of trouble"".

What are some alternatives to "true source of trouble"?

Some alternatives include "root cause of the problem", "underlying reason for the issue", or "primary factor in the difficulty" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "true source of trouble" and "a source of trouble"?

"True source of trouble" implies the main or most significant cause, whereas "a source of trouble" suggests one of potentially many contributing factors. The former is more definitive.

Is it better to use "true source of trouble" or "real source of trouble"?

Both "true source of trouble" and "real source of trouble" are acceptable. "Real" may imply authenticity, while "true" emphasizes accuracy or fundamentality. The choice depends on the intended nuance.