sourceproximate

Sourceproximate is a term that appears in discussions of information provenance to describe the extent to which a data item or claim can be traced directly to its original source, with minimal intermediaries and transformations. It is used to emphasize transparency and auditable lineage in data and content workflows.

The word is a blend of “source” and “proximate,” indicating proximity to the origin rather than to an intermediary. It is not a standardized or widely adopted term in major scholarly outlets, and its precise meaning can vary by context. In data governance and open science, it may refer to having a clear, minimal chain of custody for data, while in journalism it could describe direct attribution from a primary source.

Usage and interpretation vary, but common guiding ideas include the following: a sourceproximate item is one where the origin, raw data, or direct quotation is accessible and minimally processed, making verification easier. Conversely, items that rely on multiple transformations, translations, or intermediate aggregations tend to be viewed as less sourceproximate, with provenance becoming more complex.

Related concepts include data provenance, data lineage, reproducibility, and transparency. While sourceproximate is not a formal standard, it serves as a heuristic for evaluating how directly an output can be connected to its origin, which can influence trust, accountability, and auditability.