reference

Meanings

1. 1nouncountable

   A mention of someone or something in speech or writing.

   Grammar: Often followed by to: a reference to the meeting.

   Patterns

   • a reference to something
   • make reference to something

   The speech made several references to the town's history.

   There was no reference to the missing money in the report.

   He made a subtle reference to her promotion.

2. 2nouncountable

   A book, article, or other source you check or cite to get information.

   Grammar: Can also be used as an adjective before a noun: reference book.

   Patterns

   • a reference for something

   The library keeps dictionaries and other reference works on the top floor.

   Each essay must list its references at the end.

   Use the manual as a reference when setting up the device.

3. 3nouncountable

   A letter or statement from someone who knows you, describing your abilities for a job.

   Grammar: Often used with a possessive or verb: ask for a reference.

   Patterns

   • a reference from someone
   • give someone a reference

   My old boss agreed to write me a reference.

   The job application asks for two references.

   She received a glowing reference from her teacher.

4. 4verbtransitive

   To mention or cite something as a source.

   Grammar: Takes an object: reference a study.

   Patterns

   • reference something

   The article references three earlier studies.

   Please reference your sources at the end.

   He referenced the email in his reply.

Word forms

Common combinations

make reference to

The letter makes reference to an earlier meeting.

with reference to

I am writing with reference to your advertisement.

reference book

A reference book on birds sat on his desk.

job reference

Can you give me a job reference?

cross-reference

The index cross-references related topics.

frame of reference

Her frame of reference is shaped by living abroad.

Synonyms and how they differ

mention

Mention is plainer and covers a passing remark, while reference can imply pointing toward a source.

citation

Citation is the formal record of a source in academic work, narrower than reference.

testimonial

Testimonial praises someone's qualities, but a reference may just be a factual statement of someone's work.

allusion

Allusion is an indirect hint, whereas reference may be open and direct.

Word family

refer verb

to mention or send someone to a source

referee noun

a person who gives a reference, or a sports official

referral noun

the act of sending someone to another source or specialist

referential adjective

containing or related to a reference

Commonly confused: reference or preference? reference or refrence?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “reference”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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