a clear reference to

USAGE SUMMARY

"a clear reference to" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to something that has already been mentioned in the same document or conversation. For example, "I found a clear reference to this issue in his earlier comments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

We are the Republic of Egypt, so refrain from comparing us to other countries in the region"—a clear reference to the Syrians.

The New Yorker

This was a clear reference to the prime minister.

The Guardian

This seems a clear reference to a total solar eclipse.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The King said Bahrain would stand against "foreign interference" a clear reference to Iran.

The Guardian

One of the tsar's sons carries an iPad – a clear reference to Putin's protege, Dmitry Medvedev.

The Guardian

One prohibition specifically targets "evil cults or superstition," a clear reference to Falun Gong.

The New York Times - Magazine

I think—I think he's crazy," a clear reference to the President.

The New Yorker

This is a clear reference to the NATO action in Libya.

The New York Times

but I don't even want to name him," he added in a clear reference to Galliani.

The New York Times - Sports

"We expect the same seriousness from the opposition," he said, in a clear reference to Syriza.

The New York Times

In his visit to Columbia, for instance, Mr. Bush made a clear reference to Mr. Clinton's travails.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a clear reference to", ensure the connection you're highlighting is easily understood by your audience. Provide enough context so that the reference is apparent without requiring specialized knowledge.

Common error

Avoid using "a clear reference to" when the link is tenuous or requires significant interpretation. If the connection needs extensive explanation, consider a more direct statement instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear reference to" functions as a prepositional phrase, connecting a subject with an implied or stated allusion. As seen in Ludwig, it commonly introduces an explanation of what the subject alludes to.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

1%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clear reference to" is a versatile phrase used to highlight obvious allusions or connections. Grammatically correct and highly frequent, it serves to guide understanding by pointing out implied meanings across varied registers. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage in English. Employ it when the intended allusion is easily discernible, as confirmed by its prevalence in sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an obvious allusion to

Emphasizes the directness and ease of recognizing the connection.

a direct mention of

Focuses on the explicit naming or citing of something.

a transparent indication of

Highlights the easy-to-see nature of the reference.

an unmistakable nod to

Implies a deliberate, though possibly subtle, acknowledgment.

a plain allusion to

Simple and straightforward, indicating an uncomplicated reference.

a definite hint of

Suggests a subtle but certain connection or suggestion.

an implicit connection with

Focuses on the indirect link between the subjects.

a veiled reference to

Implies a somewhat concealed or disguised allusion.

a suggestive parallel to

Highlights similarities that imply a deliberate connection.

a telling echo of

Emphasizes the resonance or similarity between the subjects.

FAQs

How can I use "a clear reference to" in a sentence?

You can use "a clear reference to" to point out allusions or connections in writing or speech. For example, "The author makes "a clear reference to" classical mythology in his work."

What are some alternatives to "a clear reference to"?

Alternatives include "a direct mention of", "an obvious allusion to", or "a transparent indication of", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a clear reference to"?

Use "a clear reference to" when you want to emphasize that something is alluding to something else, and the connection is easily discernible. It's particularly useful in analytical writing or discussions.

What's the difference between "a clear reference to" and "an indirect reference to"?

"A clear reference to" implies that the allusion is easily noticed or understood. "An indirect reference to", on the other hand, suggests that the connection is more subtle and may require some interpretation.