What context can I use each word in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

reference

Example

I found a reference to that study in this article. [reference: noun]

Example

Can you give me a reference for a good plumber? [reference: noun]

Example

Please reference the sources used in your research paper. [reference: verb]

source

Example

The river is the source of the town's water supply. [source: noun]

Example

I got this information from a reliable source. [source: noun]

Example

This book is considered a primary source for historical research. [source: adjective]

Definitions of reference and source

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Key differences and similarities of reference and source

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Good things to know

Which word is more common?

Source is more commonly used than reference in everyday language. Source is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while reference is less common and often used in academic or professional writing.

What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reference and source?

Reference is more formal and commonly used in academic or professional contexts, while source can be used in both formal and informal contexts.