Sources Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”
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sources

[หˆsษ”หrsษชz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

library

Sources refer to the origins or references used to obtain information or data.

Synonyms

origin, references, roots.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sources

Repeated word in the input, already defined above.

references

Used when mentioning sources that provide evidence or support for statements. Common in academic, research, or professional settings.

  • Make sure to include all references in your bibliography.
  • He provided several references to support his claims during the presentation.
origin

Used to describe the point or place where something begins or is created. Often used in more formal or historical contexts.

  • The origin of the species has been a topic of scientific curiosity.
  • Her family is trying to trace the origin of their surname.
roots

Used metaphorically to talk about the fundamental or essential origins of something, often in cultural, familial, or historical contexts.

  • Many African Americans are exploring their roots through genealogical research.
  • The music traces its roots back to traditional folk songs.

Examples of usage

  • She cited her sources in the research paper.
  • The historian relied on primary sources for accuracy.
Context #2 | Noun

energy

Sources are resources or reserves that provide power or energy.

Synonyms

reserves, resources, supplies.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sources

Used to refer to the origin or place something comes from. Often used in the context of information, raw materials, energy, etc.

  • We need to find reliable sources of information.
  • The river is the primary source of water for the village.
resources

Refers to a supply of something valuable, such as money, materials, or staff, that can be drawn upon when needed. Used in both environmental and business contexts.

  • The school needs more financial resources.
  • Natural resources like timber and gold are abundant in this region.
reserves

Typically used to imply an amount of something saved for future use. Often used in financial contexts or when discussing natural resources.

  • The bank has significant cash reserves.
  • The country has large oil reserves.
supplies

Used to describe the items or provisions needed for a particular purpose. Most common in logistics, emergency contexts, and general day-to-day needs.

  • We need to stock up on medical supplies.
  • The camping trip requires a lot of supplies.

Examples of usage

  • Renewable sources like solar and wind are gaining popularity.
  • Fossil fuels are non-renewable sources of energy.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Media & Information

  • In journalism, credible sources are essential for the accuracy of news stories, distinguishing between trustworthy and unreliable information.
  • The advent of the internet has made it easier yet more challenging to find reliable sources due to the sheer volume of available information.

Science

  • In scientific research, 'sources' refer to datasets, articles, or experiments that provide evidence for conclusions drawn in studies.
  • Source credibility plays a crucial role in peer review processes, ensuring that findings are based on sound data.

Education

  • Teachers emphasize the importance of citing sources to teach students about academic integrity and respecting original authors.
  • Different subjects have various types of sources; for instance, history relies on primary documents, while science often uses journals and articles.

Philosophy

  • In discussions about knowledge, philosophers distinguish between 'primary' (first-hand) and 'secondary' sources to evaluate how we understand truth.
  • The concept of โ€˜sourcesโ€™ extends beyond physical documents to include experiences and perspectives that shape knowledge.

Origin of 'sources'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'source' comes from the Latin 'sourcere,' meaning 'to rise' or 'to flow,' akin to how a river rises from its beginning.
  • In the 14th century, 'source' meant a spring of water, later evolving to signify the origin of information.

The word 'sources' originated from Middle English, derived from Old French and Latin roots. It has evolved over time to encompass various meanings related to origins, references, and resources. Sources play a crucial role in research, energy production, and information gathering.


See also: insourcing, outsource, sourcing.

Word Frequency Rank

At #946 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.