What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
refers
Example
The teacher refers to the textbook for more information. [refers: verb]
Example
The article refers to a study conducted by Harvard University. [refers: verb]
Example
The speaker refers to the importance of education in their speech. [refers: verb]
mention
Example
She mentioned that she was going on vacation next week. [mentioned: verb]
Example
He mentioned his favorite book during the interview. [mentioned: verb]
Example
The article mentions the benefits of exercise for overall health. [mentions: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mention is more commonly used than refers in everyday language. Mention is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while refers is less common and often used in more formal settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between refers and mention?
Refers is more formal than mention, which is more casual and conversational. Therefore, refers is more appropriate in academic or professional settings, while mention is more suitable for informal conversations.
