reference

[ˈrɛf(ə)rəns]

reference Definition

• 1. the action of mentioning or alluding to something
• 2. a letter from a previous employer testifying to someone's ability or reliability, used when applying for a new job
• 3. a book or passage cited in support of a fact or statement

Using reference: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "reference" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The article makes several references to his earlier publications.

• Example

  I included a list of references with my job application.

• Example

  The speaker made a reference to Shakespeare's play.

• Example

  She found the reference in the encyclopedia.

reference Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for reference

• allusion
• citation
• mention
• source
• testimonial

Antonyms for reference

• disregard
• ignore

Idioms Using reference

• make reference to

  to mention or allude to something

  Example

  The speaker made reference to the recent political events.

• with reference to

  in regard to; concerning

  Example

  With reference to your email, I would like to clarify some points.

• take a reference from

  to ask for a testimonial or recommendation from someone

  Example

  I took a reference from my previous employer before accepting the job offer.

Phrases with reference

• frame of reference

  a set of criteria or stated values in relation to which measurements or judgments can be made

  Example

  Different cultures have different frames of reference for what is considered polite behavior.

• point of reference

  a fixed or familiar point used to make measurements or comparisons

  Example

  The North Star was used as a point of reference for navigation.

• character reference

  a written or spoken statement attesting to someone's good character and conduct

  Example

  I asked my former boss to provide a character reference for me.

Origins of reference

from Latin 'referre', meaning 'to carry back'

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Summary: reference in Brief

The term 'reference' [ˈrɛf(ə)rəns] refers to the act of mentioning or alluding to something, such as a book or passage cited in support of a fact or statement. It also refers to a letter from a previous employer testifying to someone's ability or reliability, used when applying for a new job. 'Reference' extends into phrases like 'frame of reference,' and idioms like 'make reference to,' denoting the act of mentioning or alluding to something.