primary source

American  

[prahym-er-ee sawrs, sohrs] / ˈpraɪm ɛr i ˈsɔrs, ˈsoʊrs /

noun

1. a first-hand or original account.

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Example Sentences

As in many parts of the world, social media, particularly TikTok, has become the primary source of information for young people.

From Barron's

We know in 1845, potato fields — the primary source of food for the poor — became infested with a devastating fungus that destroyed 40% of the crop.

From Los Angeles Times

“Any update to our totals reflects information that has been independently verified through primary sources,” Thompson said.

From The Wall Street Journal

"Phytoplankton are the primary source of food for krill, the microscopic shrimp that are the main source of food in the Southern Ocean for virtually every animal, including penguins, seals, walruses and whales," Falkowski said.

From Science Daily

Forgoing a proper tip means you’re taking advantage of the people serving you, who rely on gratuities as their primary source of income.

From The Wall Street Journal