a referral from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a referral from" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating the source or person who has recommended someone or something to you. Example: "I received a referral from my colleague, who spoke highly of your services."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A referral from a doctor or social worker.

The Guardian - Opinion

Joining is free but requires a referral from another member.

The New York Times - Food

The EC challenged the Premier League's arrangements in 2002, after a referral from the OFT.

The Guardian

A personal recommendation, they say, can be just as powerful as a referral from Google.

The New York Times

The police watchdog had not received a referral from Sussex police by Monday afternoon.

The Guardian

The AFP confirmed it had received a referral from Dreyfus on Wednesday morning.

The Guardian

Australian federal police confirmed to Guardian Australia it had received a referral from the Department of Immigration and Border Protection.

The Guardian

The F.B.I. investigation was based on a referral from the Energy Department, which first raised suspicions about Dr. Lee.

The New York Times

Officials pointed out that the inquiry was spurred by a referral from the city's Administration for Children's Services.

The New York Times

The patient must have a referral from a treating physician -- the primary care doctor or specialist coordinating the patient's care.

The New York Times

It gets a fee if an agent makes a sale on a referral from NeighborCity.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking professional services, specify the type of "a referral from" you need, such as "a referral from a specialist" or "a referral from a trusted source" to ensure relevance and quality.

Common error

Avoid using "reference" and "referral" interchangeably. A reference attests to someone's character or skills, while "a referral from" directs you to a specific person or service. For example, you get "a referral from" a doctor to a specialist, not "a reference from" a doctor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a referral from" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or verb by indicating the source of a recommendation or direction. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English, pointing to its role in specifying the origin of a suggestion or instruction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

20%

Wiki

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a referral from" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to indicate the source of a recommendation or direction. Ludwig AI analysis and multiple examples confirm its validity and wide applicability. It appears frequently in news media, scientific literature, and wikis, conveying information about the origin of advice or instruction. When using the phrase, ensure you are accurately conveying whether you are referring to a guide, a direction or a reference to someone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a recommendation by

Focuses on the act of recommending rather than the formal process of a referral.

an endorsement by

Implies a stronger level of support or approval.

a suggestion from

Indicates a less formal recommendation.

a connection through

Emphasizes the link or network that facilitates the introduction.

an introduction via

Highlights the means by which someone was introduced or connected.

a lead from

Suggests a potential opportunity or piece of information.

a contact provided by

Focuses on the act of sharing contact information.

clearance from

Indicates permission or approval from a superior.

a permit issued by

Focuses on the official issuing the permit.

approval granted by

Emphasizes the authorization aspect.

FAQs

How can I use "a referral from" in a sentence?

Use "a referral from" to indicate the source of a recommendation or direction. For instance, "I got "a referral from my doctor" to see a specialist".

What can I say instead of "a referral from"?

You can use alternatives like "a recommendation from", "an endorsement by", or "a suggestion from", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a reference from" instead of "a referral from"?

While both terms relate to recommendations, they aren't interchangeable. "A reference" is a statement about someone's qualities, whereas "a referral from" directs you to a specific resource or professional. Choose based on your intended meaning.

What's the difference between "a recommendation from" and "a referral from"?

"A recommendation from" is a general endorsement, while "a referral from" is a specific direction to a service or individual. For example, "I got "a recommendation from my friend" to try that restaurant", but "I needed "a referral from my GP" to see a specialist".