What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
citation
Example
Make sure to include a citation for each source you used in your essay. [citation: noun]
Example
She cited several experts in her research paper to support her arguments. [cited: past tense]
reference
Example
The author provided a reference to a previous study that supported their findings. [reference: noun]
Example
In this article, the author makes several references to historical events. [references: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reference is more commonly used than citation in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts. Citation is primarily used in academic and scholarly writing, while reference can be employed in various types of writing, including academic, professional, and casual.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between citation and reference?
While both citation and reference are commonly used in formal writing, citation is more closely associated with formal and academic contexts due to its specific rules and formatting requirements.
