Reference
'ref(ə)r(ə)ns
Definitions
3 meaningsA statement, fact, or source that you use to show that something is true or correct.
'ref(ə)r(ə)ns
A mention or allusion to something.
The teacher made a reference to the historical event.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're talking about your favorite movie. A reference is like mentioning a scene or a character from that movie to make your point. It helps explain something by bringing in other information.
👶 For kids: When you talk about something, and you say where you heard about it, that's a reference!
More Examples
The book contains numerous references to other scholars' works.
He provided a reference for her job application.
She needed to cite all the references used in her essay.
How It's Used
"The article makes several references to the author's previous work."
"Include all references in a bibliography at the end of the paper."
A letter or statement from someone who knows you and can vouch for your character or abilities.
'ref(ə)r(ə)ns
A recommendation from a previous employer.
Can I use you as a reference?
💡 Simply: Imagine you want a job. A reference is like asking a past boss or teacher to write a letter saying you're good at what you do. It's their way of recommending you!
👶 For kids: When someone says you are good, and they can prove it, it's a reference.
More Examples
He submitted his references with his application.
The hiring manager contacted her references to get their opinions.
She got a good reference from her former employer.
How It's Used
"She provided a reference from her previous manager."
"Applicants should provide three academic references."
To mention or refer to something, to make a reference.
'refə(r)əns
To mention or allude to something.
The lawyer referenced the law in her closing argument.
💡 Simply: When you're talking and bring up something else to support what you're saying, that's referencing. Like when you quote a famous person to strengthen your argument.
👶 For kids: When you talk about something else to explain what you are talking about, that is referencing.
More Examples
She referenced a quote from Shakespeare in her essay.
He didn't reference any sources.
The article referenced a study that supported the theory.
How It's Used
"The author referenced several studies in their research."
"The speaker referenced current events in their speech."
Synonyms
Acknowledgment
Citation
Mention
Endorsement
Recommendation
Cite
Invoke
Idioms & expressions
for reference
Used to indicate that a piece of information is provided to help understand something or because it might be useful.
"For reference, the meeting is scheduled for 2 PM."
From Middle English *referens*, from Old French *refference* (13th century), from Latin *referentia* ("a report, reference"), from *referre* ("to refer").
The word 'reference' has been used since the late 13th century, evolving from its Latin and Old French roots.
Memory tip
Think of a citation; it's a reference!