a reference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a reference" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It can refer to a mention of something or someone as a source or support for a statement in a sentence. Example: In his research paper, the writer made a reference to a study conducted by Smith (2018) which supports his argument on the impact of social media on mental health.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a reference point".

The New York Times - Sports

He was a reference.

The New York Times - Sports

A reference book.

The New York Times - Books

A reference work.

The New York Times - Books

A "reference machine"?

The Guardian - Music

The Green Line is a reference, but only a reference".

The New York Times - Magazine

A reference book for travelers.

The New York Times - Books

This is a reference to my work.

The New Yorker

Coniacian is a reference to Cognac.

The New Yorker

Sounded like a reference to free soap.

The New York Times

R2P will be a reference.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing "a reference", always ensure it is relevant and credible to support your argument or statement.

Common error

Avoid building your entire argument on "a reference". Always cross-validate with multiple sources for a more robust and reliable conclusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reference" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. Ludwig AI supports this observation, noting the frequent use of the phrase across diverse contexts. Examples from Ludwig show its utility in academic writing, news reports, and general explanations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

32%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a reference" is a commonly used noun phrase that serves to provide support, validation, or context. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in various writing styles, from academic and scientific papers to news articles and general explanations. The usage spans from formal to informal registers, showcasing its versatility. While "a reference" is generally grammatically correct, it's crucial to ensure that the reference used is credible and relevant. Alternative phrases such as "a citation" or "a mention" can be used depending on the desired level of formality and the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a citation

Focuses specifically on mentioning a source of information in academic or formal writing.

a referral

Implies directing someone to a person or resource for help or information.

a mention

Indicates a brief or casual allusion to something or someone.

a pointer

Suggests a helpful piece of information or guidance.

an allusion

Refers to an indirect or subtle reference.

a guideline

Offers a set of instructions or principles for a specific task or area.

a standard

Establishes a benchmark or level of quality to be followed.

a source

Highlights the origin or provider of information or support.

an authority

Emphasizes the expertise or credibility of the reference.

a benchmark

Indicates a point of reference against which something can be measured.

FAQs

How to use "a reference" in a sentence?

Use "a reference" to indicate a source of information or support for a statement. For example: "The study provided "a reference" for the effectiveness of the new treatment."

What can I say instead of "a reference"?

You can use alternatives like "a citation", "a mention", or "a source" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a reference" or "the reference"?

Both "a reference" and "the reference" can be correct, depending on the context. Use "a reference" when you are introducing a general reference or one of many possible references. Use "the reference" when you are referring to a specific reference that has already been mentioned or is understood.

What's the difference between "a reference" and "a referral"?

"A reference" is a mention of something or someone as a source of information or support. "A referral" is the act of directing someone to a person or resource for help. For example, "The doctor gave me "a referral" to a specialist, and I found "a reference" to the specialist's work in a medical journal."