a plain reference to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a plain reference to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that something is a straightforward or clear mention of a particular subject or idea. Example: "The author makes a plain reference to the historical events that shaped the narrative."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The subject of "An Old Woman at Her Meal" eats bread and wine, a plain reference to the Eucharist.

The New York Times - Arts

The use of a Russian euphemism in the amendment, instead of a plain reference to homosexual relations, leaves an already controversial piece of legislation open to interpretation.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

We've lost four of our diplomats, and what is the signal that our government is sending to the rest of the world?" Just as quickly as he alluded to Mr. Carter's biggest foreign policy crisis, Mr. Ryan also asserted that a Romney-Ryan administration would follow a strategy of "peace through strength" – an equally plain reference to the national security motto Mr. Reagan favored.

The New York Times

At the start of the first episode, Cillian Murphy rides his horse down the main street - an apparent reference to Clint Eastwood in High Plains Drifter.

BBC

Sample exam question: "Illustrate the difference between a desert and a tidal plain, with reference to which is a better setting for camel-mounted warfare".

The Guardian

Is it a metaphor, a reference to a mythical pagan spirit, or a clue about the identity of the real killer, who may even be hiding in plain sight?

The New Yorker

Graham herself later referred to this decade as "my period of long woolens," a reference to the plain jersey dress that she wore in many of her dances.

Encyclopedia Britannica

By taking into account both the beneficial heat transfer enhancement and the adverse increase of pressure drop in a non-dimensional figure of merit (FoM), we demonstrate a significant performance enhancement of 220% at Re = 350 using herringbone structures for heat transfer augmentation compared to a plain, unstructured reference microchannel.

International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer

The "Cities of the Plains" in its title is a reference to the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, and the plot revolves around Jack Saul, a young whore and proud possessor of a "priapus nearly ten inches long," and a "glorious pair of balls… surrounded and set off by a profusion of light auburn curls".

Vice

More given to tattooing than most Plains Indians, they were known by other groups as the "tattooed people". Their name for themselves, Kitikiti'sh, means "raccoon eyes," a reference to a distinctive tattoo around the eyes.

Britannica

The coastal plain is also known as the 1002 area (a reference to section 1002 of the 1980 Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act).

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a plain reference to" when you want to emphasize the direct and easily understood nature of a connection or allusion. Avoid using it when the reference is subtle or requires interpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "a plain reference to" when describing subtle allusions or nuanced connections, as it implies a directness that may not be present. Opt for phrases like "a subtle allusion to" or "a veiled reference to" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a plain reference to" functions as a noun phrase acting as a prepositional complement. It typically introduces a direct and easily understood connection or allusion. Ludwig confirms the correctness of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a plain reference to" is a grammatically sound phrase used to indicate a direct and easily understood connection. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and finds usage across various domains, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While relatively rare, it serves to ensure clarity and directness. When choosing alternative phrases, consider the level of subtlety intended in your writing. Avoid using this expression when implying something that demands complex interpretations, according to best practice. Remember to be direct and clear.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an obvious allusion to

Emphasizes the clarity and directness of the reference.

a clear indication of

Highlights that the reference serves as a sign or signal.

a straightforward mention of

Focuses on the simplicity and lack of ambiguity in the reference.

a direct citation of

Indicates a precise quotation or mentioning of a source.

a distinct connection to

Highlights a notable and unambiguous link to something else.

an explicit statement about

Emphasizes the clarity and openness of the declaration.

an undisguised hint at

Suggests a subtle but easily perceived implication.

a transparent link with

Highlights an easily observable relationship.

a readily apparent reference to

Stresses the easiness with which the reference can be understood.

a noticeable nod toward

Indicates a recognizable gesture or acknowledgment.

FAQs

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

You can use "a plain reference to" to indicate a direct and easily understood connection. For example, "The author makes a plain reference to the historical event in the first chapter."

What's a good alternative to "a plain reference to"?

Alternatives include "a clear indication of", "a straightforward mention of", or "an obvious allusion to", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a plain reference to" or "a subtle reference to"?

It depends on the context. Use "a plain reference to" when the connection is direct and obvious. Use "a subtle reference to" when the connection is implied or requires interpretation.

What does "a plain reference to" imply about the connection being made?

It implies that the connection is direct, obvious, and requires little to no interpretation. It suggests that the reference is easily recognizable by the audience.