source - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
source Word Meanings
- a place where something begins or is obtained
- a person or thing that provides information
- a resource or supply from which something flows
source Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
source Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/sɔːs/
US
/sɔrs/
source Word Etymology
source = surgere = to rise; from Latin (surgo, surgere) → Old French (sorcer) → English. Imagine a natural spring where water rises to the surface and flows, serving as the origin or 'source' of a river.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for the pitcher and tilt it, watching the liquid move toward the cup as the source of the drink comes into view. I keep my hand steady, then adjust the angle when the flow falters, feeling the source shift with a small nudge. The moment is simple and concrete, a tiny decision about where things begin and how they arrive. Later, when I say source, I picture that same line of origin in a sentence or plan, the place where something starts and then travels to me.
Real Context
Source is a flexible noun that names where something begins, comes from, or is obtained. It can be a physical place such as the source of a river, a starting point in a process, or the generator of an idea. It also means a person or document that provides information, evidence, or materials, for example a news source, a scholarly source, or a data source. In many domains the word carries connotations of origin and reliability, so learners should note phrases like from sources, close to his sources, or source of funding. The term also appears in computing as a data source or source code, extending its core idea of origin and channel.
Usage Reminders
- Use source for origin, starting point, or provider of information. Distinguish origin from reason or cause. Pair with phrases like data source and source of funding. When citing, name the source rather than the entire source material. In computing, use data source or source code as appropriate.
Common Misconceptions
- Source = origin only, not a person or document
- Source and cause are interchangeable
- Always means a physical place
- Source is the same as reference
- Avoid using source in technical phrases
Thinking Differences
English tends to separate origin from justification: source is where something comes from or who provides it. Learners often mix up source with cause or assume it must be a physical place, leading to errors like saying its source is the river when you mean the river's origin.
Learning Tips
- memorize common collocations with source (source of information, data source, source code)
- distinguish source from origin vs cause
- practice citing sources in writing
- differentiate physical source from abstract data source
- watch for funding or data contexts
- use reliable sources as a信赖度 cue
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'source'?
A.Origin
B.Destination
C.Commence
D.Terminate
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'source' used in a sentence?
A.He reached the source of his journey.
B.We ended at the source of the party.
C.They started at the source of the story.
D.She found the source of the river.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'source'?
A.Effect
B.Cause
C.Result
D.Product
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'source'?
A.Wrap up
B.Finish
C.Conclude
D.End
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give a real-life context where the word 'source' is used?
A.Finding the source of a leak in a pipe.
B.Reaching the source of a rumor.
C.Locating the source of an infection.
D.Tracing the source of a foul smell.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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