Used and loved by millions
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
a sanctioned reference
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "a sanctioned reference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a reference that has been officially approved or authorized, often in academic or professional contexts. Example: "In her research paper, she cited a sanctioned reference from a reputable journal to support her argument."
✓ Grammatically correct
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
60 human-written examples
"It was not a sanctioned R.N.C. activity.
News & Media
Join a school sanctioned group.
Wiki
For all three countries, more than $190 billion in transactions were concealed in the decade between 2002 and 2012, the DFS says.Methods used by BNP to avoid detection included stripping out any reference to sanctioned countries from transfers and using deliberately complex, circuitous methods to channel money through other banks.
News & Media
She cited "differences of views" on sanctions, an apparent reference to resistance from Russia and China.
News & Media
Passage was achieved after the United States on Thursday revised the measure to drop the word sanctions and substitute a reference to an article of the United Nations Charter that in effect lays out economic and diplomatic sanctions as the likely consequence of noncompliance with the resolution's demands.
News & Media
A sanctions resolution," he said.
News & Media
It is a sanction of last resort".
News & Media
Specifically, we estimate the effect of a sanction on those individuals who are not sanctioned by an agency with a cautious sanction policy, but who would be sanctioned if the agency decided to impose sanctions more frequently.
Science
Using Z1 as an instrument, the estimate of θ depicts the LATE of a sanction on those individuals who are sanctioned in an agency that frequently imposes sanctions and who would not be sanctioned in another (more reserved) agency.
Science
In 44% of the reported cases, a sanction was imposed.
Science
Hence, the welfare agency may immediately impose a sanction.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "a sanctioned reference" to indicate that the reference material has official approval or authorization, often in academic, legal, or professional contexts.
Common error
Be mindful that "sanctioned" in this context means approved or authorized, not penalized. Avoid using it when you intend to convey disapproval or punishment.
Source & Trust
78%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a sanctioned reference" functions as an adjective phrase modifying the noun "reference". According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in written English. The adjective "sanctioned" indicates that the reference has been officially approved or authorized.
Frequent in
Science
0%
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Science
0%
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "a sanctioned reference" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a reference that has been officially approved or authorized. While not frequently encountered, according to Ludwig AI the expression is valid. It is particularly useful in academic and professional contexts where the validity of sources is critical. Alternatives such as "an approved reference" or "an authorized reference" can be used to convey a similar meaning. Remember that "sanctioned" in this context implies endorsement, not punishment.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
an approved reference
Replaces "sanctioned" with "approved", emphasizing the positive endorsement of the reference.
an authorized reference
Substitutes "sanctioned" with "authorized", highlighting the official permission or endorsement.
an officially approved reference
Adds "officially" to emphasize the formal nature of the approval.
a certified reference
Uses "certified" instead of "sanctioned", suggesting that the reference has met certain standards.
an endorsed reference
Replaces "sanctioned" with "endorsed", indicating support or recommendation.
a government-sanctioned reference
Specifies that the sanction comes from a governmental body.
a validated reference
Uses "validated" to mean the reference has been confirmed or proven accurate.
a ratified reference
Replaces "sanctioned" with "ratified", implying formal consent or approval.
an accredited reference
Uses "accredited" to suggest the reference meets specific quality standards.
a recognized reference
Replaces "sanctioned" with "recognized", highlighting acceptance or acknowledgment.
FAQs
What does "a sanctioned reference" mean?
The phrase "a sanctioned reference" means a source or piece of information that has been officially approved or authorized for use, often by an institution or organization.
When is it appropriate to use the term "a sanctioned reference"?
It's appropriate to use "a sanctioned reference" when you want to emphasize that a particular source has been formally approved or recognized as valid and reliable. For example, in academic research or legal documentation.
Are there any alternatives to using "a sanctioned reference"?
Yes, you can use alternatives such as "an approved reference", "an authorized reference", or "a certified reference" depending on the context.
How does "a sanctioned reference" differ from just "a reference"?
"A reference" simply means a source of information. "A sanctioned reference", on the other hand, implies that the source has been officially endorsed or approved by some authority.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
78%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested