resource

/ˈriːsɔːrs/
nounIntermediate
general

An available supply of something that can be used or drawn upon when needed.

Natural resources like water and timber are essential for many industries.

These materials from nature are crucial for manufacturing and other sectors.

Time is a valuable resource that should not be wasted.

Time is something precious that should be used wisely.

💡

The term can refer to tangible assets (like materials) or intangible ones (like time or knowledge).

general

A person or thing that provides help or support.

She is a great resource for information about local history.

She knows a lot about local history and can provide useful details.

💡

This usage emphasizes the supportive role of a person or tool.

Collocations

natural resourcematerials provided by nature, such as minerals or forestshuman resourceemployees or personnel in an organizationtime resourcethe amount of time available for a task

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

resource managementphrase
the efficient use of available assets
resource allocationphrase
the distribution of resources to different tasks

💡Pro Tip

Context Matters

The meaning of 'resource' can vary widely depending on the context. Pay attention to whether it refers to materials, people, or time.

Gold Rule

Avoid Overuse

While 'resource' is versatile, overusing it in formal writing can make text repetitive. Use synonyms like 'asset' or 'supply' for variety.

📖Word Origin

From Middle French 'ressource' (means 'aid, help') from Old French 'resourdre' (means 'to rise again'), from Latin 'resurgere' (means 'to rise again').

📝Usage Notes

In business contexts, 'resource' often refers to employees (e.g., 'human resources'). In environmental contexts, it refers to natural materials.

Word Breakdown

re-
again
prefix
+
-source
origin or supply
root
English Dictionary