a specific reference to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a specific reference to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that something is being pointed out or mentioned in a precise manner. Example: "The author makes a specific reference to the historical events that shaped the narrative."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

The bad behaviour that Lawson refers to is not a general statement – but a specific reference to his dealings with Wall Street over one very high-profile deal.

The Guardian - Business

Second, Both Iran and Syria suggested that there should have been a specific reference to the rights of states facing occupation to acquire arms, referring to the Palestinians.

The New York Times

Another widely noted omission was the lack of a specific reference to the Holocaust.

The New York Times

The "not" category was a specific reference to young black and Hispanic men.

The New York Times

That was a specific reference to London Live, the channel launched by the publisher of the London Evening Standard and The Independent, Evgeny Lebedev.

The Guardian

The senior officer, who will also face action for mishandling the situation, told investigators that AZ8 made a specific reference to George Michael.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Janice Kasper, who can be loosely described as Georgia O'Keeffe with a cause, makes a very specific reference to her concerns for the clear cutting of trees in Maine's great forests.

The New York Times

Dogma (Latin decretum, Greek dogma) has come to have a more specific reference to the distillate of doctrines: those first (basic or axiomatic) principles at the heart of doctrinal reflection, professed as essential by all the faithful.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Scarecrow in the film The Wizard of Oz makes a more specific reference to the theorem.

Wikipedia

"In fact, even if the governing documents contained specific language permitting the board to grant or withhold its consent to subletting, the documents still must contain an additional specific reference to the board's right to impose a fee as well," he said.

The New York Times

This chapter discusses the methods used to determine the composition of biomass as a whole with specific reference to its cell walls and its thermal and other properties.

Biomass Gasification, Pyrolysis and Torrefaction Practical Design and Theory

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a specific reference to" when you want to emphasize that you are not making a general statement, but rather pointing out a particular instance or detail. It adds precision and clarity to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a specific reference to" when a general statement would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound overly formal or verbose. Instead, consider if a simpler phrase would convey the same meaning more effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a specific reference to" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or verb. It indicates that something is being directly and intentionally mentioned or alluded to. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage across various reliable sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a specific reference to" is a versatile phrase used to highlight a direct connection or mention. It is deemed grammatically correct and frequently used in various writing contexts, from news and media to scientific and formal business communications. The phrase functions as a prepositional modifier, ensuring clarity and precision. While generally neutral in tone, overuse can make writing sound formal, according to Ludwig's AI analysis. Alternatives include "a direct allusion to" and "a particular mention of". Ludwig can help you confirm the phrase's appropriate usage in any given situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a direct allusion to

Emphasizes the directness of the reference, suggesting it's clear and unambiguous.

a particular mention of

Highlights that a certain item or detail receives attention, making it unique in the discussion.

an explicit citation of

Stresses that a precise quote or source is being brought to the forefront.

a pointed remark about

Indicates that the reference serves a clear goal, and there is likely a specific reason to mention it.

a definite statement on

Stresses that the message is specific and removes any potential doubt on the thing that's mentioned.

a precise indication of

Suggests accuracy and exactness in the reference, avoiding ambiguity.

a targeted focus on

Implies a narrowed-down attention to a particular item instead of a general discussion.

a clear connection to

Highlights a link between the item being discussed and another item.

a detailed illustration of

Suggests that the reference is given as an in-depth example to clarify or illuminate the main discussion.

an intentional application of

Highlights that the person intentionally refers to the message.

FAQs

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

Use "a specific reference to" when you want to point out a particular instance, detail, or source. For example, "The report made "a specific reference to" the 2008 financial crisis".

What are some alternatives to "a specific reference to"?

You can use alternatives like "a direct allusion to", "a particular mention of", or "an explicit citation of" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a specific reference to" over a general statement?

Use "a specific reference to" when you want to highlight a precise detail or source, rather than making a broad generalization. It adds clarity and precision to your writing.

Is "a specific reference to" formal or informal?

"A specific reference to" is generally considered neutral to formal. It is suitable for academic, professional, and journalistic writing, but it might sound somewhat stilted in very informal contexts.