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Discover LudwigThe phrase "a passing reference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when mentioning something briefly or in a casual manner without going into detail.
Example: "In her speech, she made a passing reference to the importance of environmental conservation."
Alternatives: "a brief mention" or "a casual allusion".
Exact(60)
"Typically," Stemple says, "as a passing reference".
He made only a passing reference to Al Qaeda.
MFL Fisher has a passing reference, but provides no guidance.
"You can give a passing reference for the grandfather".
Emmett wasn't making just a passing reference to the catastrophe that hit New Orleans in 2005.
On the next "Pardon My Take" episode, the hosts made only a passing reference.
Ahsan made a passing reference to the ongoing talks resuming this week.
The statement made only a passing reference to the severing of Mr. Ibrahim's head.
He also makes a passing reference to the shooting of Mr. Sterling.
By contrast, the Mirror made only a passing reference to it.
Unless I missed a passing reference, Ms. Moore leaves out her first husband altogether.
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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com