viable source

Meaning

1. 1nouncountable

   A source of something (information, energy, income, etc.) that is practical, reliable, and able to be used successfully.

   Grammar: Countable: you can say 'a viable source' or 'viable sources'. Often followed by 'of' + what it provides: a viable source of information.

   Patterns

   • a viable source of something
   • a viable source for something

   The library's online database is a viable source of academic articles for our research.

   Solar power has become a viable source of energy for many homes in sunny regions.

   Before you trust that website, check whether it is a viable source of medical advice.

Common combinations

a viable source of information

For a school project, encyclopedias are still a viable source of information.

a viable source of income

Freelance writing became a viable source of income after she built up a client base.

a viable source of energy

Wind turbines are a viable source of energy in coastal areas.

remain a viable source

Printed newspapers remain a viable source of local news for older readers.

Synonyms and how they differ

reliable source

Focuses on trustworthiness, not practical usability; a source can be reliable but not viable if it is too expensive or unavailable.

credible source

Emphasizes believability; a credible source may still not be viable if it cannot be accessed or used.

Word family

viability noun

The quality of being able to work successfully; e.g., 'the viability of the project'.

viably adverb

In a way that is practical and able to succeed; e.g., 'The business is now operating viably'.

Commonly confused: viable source or viral source?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “viable source”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

Explore more words