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
an existing reference
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "an existing reference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a reference that is already in place or available, often in academic or professional contexts. Example: "In our research, we will build upon an existing reference to support our findings."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
28 human-written examples
First, short reads of DNA are aligned to an existing reference genome (referred to as alignment).
Science
An auxiliary program processes an existing reference sequence or reference space hash table to produce two new hash tables, both representing the plus strand of the genome, with one having C T substitutions and the other having G A substitutions.
Science
Trade-offs exist between aligning RNA-seq data to an existing reference transcriptome versus de-novo assembly [ 7, 19, 20].
Science
We frame these guidelines into an existing reference model for information systems development.
A subsequent projection of the value of stakeholder-led land management was calculated and compared to an existing reference for the value of urban green space from The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity database.
Science
Although an existing reference power plant forms the basis of the work, the study is directed towards a new state-of-the-art lignite-fired O2/CO2 power plant.
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
32 human-written examples
We compute the correlation matrix using a mixture of existing reference panels, such as the 1000 Genomes Project Consortium (2012), where the mixture proportion for each reference population is learned from summary statistics.
Science
Refer some existing reference design such as Mistral Software's "Sunada"; External Link included below.
Wiki
Likewise, 382 predictions fell over a z-score of 1, and of these 375 matched existing reference annotations, yielding a 98.2% accuracy.
Science
With a design by the British architect Norman Foster of Foster + Partners, the library plans to remove many books to make room for a circulating library inside the existing reference center.
News & Media
COBRA [ 20, 188] simulations of the iJO1366 E. coli genome-scale reconstruction were employed in order to validate the EcoCyc FBA simulations and to provide a point of comparison to existing reference models.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Always verify the accuracy and validity of "an existing reference" before relying on it for decision-making or analysis.
Common error
Avoid using "an existing reference" without assessing its current relevance. Ensure that the reference is still valid and hasn't been superseded by more recent information or standards.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "an existing reference" functions primarily as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It specifies that the reference being discussed is not new or hypothetical, but rather something that already exists and can be consulted or used for comparison. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English.
Frequent in
Science
65%
News & Media
20%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Academia
3%
Wiki
1%
Reference
1%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "an existing reference" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves to denote a pre-established source of information. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in English. Its prevalence in scientific and formal contexts underscores its role in providing clarity and credibility to discussions. When employing this phrase, it's important to ensure the chosen reference remains current and pertinent. Alternatives such as ""a current benchmark"" or ""a pre-established standard"" can be considered for nuanced expression.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a current benchmark
Focuses on the present-day relevance of the reference point.
a pre-established standard
Highlights that the standard was set up previously.
a known point of comparison
Emphasizes the use of the reference for comparing different entities.
a prior baseline
Stresses the use of the reference as a starting point for measurement.
a conventional paradigm
Highlights the established and accepted nature of the reference.
an established precedent
Focuses on the reference as an example for future actions.
a legacy framework
Emphasizes that the reference has been around for a longer time.
a traditional model
Underlines that the reference is based on well-known, old models.
a recognized authority
Focuses on the fact that the reference is broadly recognised and authoritative.
a go-to resource
Highlights the easy accessibility of the reference.
FAQs
How can I use "an existing reference" in a sentence?
You can use "an existing reference" to compare new data, validate findings, or establish a baseline. For example, "The study compared the new results against "an existing reference" to determine its significance."
What is a good alternative to "an existing reference"?
Alternatives include "a current benchmark", "a pre-established standard", or "a known point of comparison", depending on the context.
What's the difference between "an existing reference" and "a standard reference"?
"An existing reference" simply indicates that the reference is already in use or available, while "a standard reference" implies that the reference is widely recognized and accepted within a particular field. You might use "an existing reference" that isn't necessarily a "standard reference".
When is it appropriate to use "an existing reference" vs. creating a new one?
Use "an existing reference" when it adequately addresses your needs and is reliable. Create a new reference if existing ones are insufficient, outdated, or do not accurately reflect the current situation.
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
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested