The anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) is often interpreted in terms of strain. However, since AMS is controlled by all magnetic (s.1.) carriers present, an AMS interpretation is not straightforward, especially in the presence of composite magnetic fabrics. Considering the large number of factors that may influence rock mineralogy (e.g. sediment source area, metamorphism), it becomes clear that one cannot interpret AMS in terms of strain without applying additional techniques that allow determining the nature and preferred orientation of all magnetic (s.1.) carriers likely influencing the measured AMS. This is discussed using samples from the Brabant Massif (Belgium) and the Moesian Platform (E-Romania).