primary source

Pronunciation

Noun B1 Intermediate

An original document, object, or firsthand account created at the time of an event being studied.

"The letters and diaries are primary sources historians use to understand the war."

Synonyms and antonyms

secondary source

A primary source comes directly from the time and event studied, while a secondary source, like a textbook, interprets it afterwards.

Which word fits the gap? "The letters and diaries are _____ historians use to understand the war."

Answer: primary source

In your own words, what does "primary source" mean?

An original document, object, or firsthand account created at the time of an event being studied.