an obvious reference to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an obvious reference to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that something clearly alludes to or points to a specific subject, idea, or work. Example: "The author's latest novel is an obvious reference to the struggles of modern society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We have people now who have found that warning about 'cyber war' has become an unlikely career path"—an obvious reference to McConnell and Clarke.

The New Yorker

That was an obvious reference to Fox and Lewis.

The New York Times - Sports

It was an obvious reference to President Clinton's personal conduct.

The New York Times

"Incrementalism is dead," Ruffalo declared – an obvious reference to Clinton's supposedly more pragmatic policy platform.

The Guardian

Among evangelical Christians, it is an obvious reference to Satan, and appears throughout the Bible.

The New York Times

It seemed an obvious reference to the documents disclosed this week in Boston.

The New York Times

SPIRIT RAPPING, though, is an obvious reference to Lincoln's iPod playlist.

The New Yorker

Mr. Delfin thought the hoods were an obvious reference to René Magritte's "The Lovers".

The New York Times

This was an obvious reference to Johnson's naked opportunism, and future ambitions to lead the Conservative party.

The Guardian

That statement -- an obvious reference to Lindros's seven concussions -- did not sit so well with Rangers Coach Ron Low.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

President Obama quipped the other night that he is so close to Vice President Biden that they can't buy a pizza in Indiana--an obvious reference to Indiana's religious freedom law permitting businesses in the state to refuse goods and services to gays on grounds of religious scruple.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an obvious reference to" to highlight intertextuality or to draw attention to the source of an idea or concept within your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "an obvious reference to" when the subject might not be universally known. Provide context or briefly explain the reference to ensure inclusivity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an obvious reference to" functions as a prepositional phrase. It typically follows a noun or clause, serving to identify or clarify the subject by indicating that it contains a clear and intentional connection to something else. Ludwig AI indicates that it's grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an obvious reference to" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase for highlighting intentional connections or allusions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted in written English and particularly prevalent in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the reference is genuinely clear to your audience and avoid assuming universal knowledge. Alternatives such as ""a clear allusion to"" or ""a blatant nod to"" can be used for variety, depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear allusion to

Focuses on the act of alluding, implying a more subtle or indirect connection.

a blatant nod to

Emphasizes the directness and intentionality of the reference.

a transparent allusion to

Highlights the ease with which the reference can be understood.

a thinly veiled reference to

Suggests the reference is poorly disguised or concealed.

a direct correlation with

Indicates a straightforward and easily identifiable link.

a readily apparent connection to

Stresses the visibility and recognizability of the link.

a conspicuous mention of

Highlights the noteworthiness and visibility of the reference.

a telling sign of

Focuses on the reference as an indicator of something else.

a suggestive echo of

Implies a subtle but noticeable resemblance or callback.

a pointed remark about

Highlights the intent and target of the reference.

FAQs

How can I use "an obvious reference to" in a sentence?

Use "an obvious reference to" when you want to point out a clear connection or allusion to something else. For instance, "The movie's plot is "an obvious reference to" Shakespeare's Hamlet".

What are some alternatives to "an obvious reference to"?

You can use alternatives like "a clear allusion to", "a blatant nod to", or "a transparent allusion to" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "an obvious reference to" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to highlight that something is intentionally alluding to another work, idea, or event, and that this connection is easily discernible. For example, "His speech contained "an obvious reference to" the environmental crisis".

What's the difference between "an obvious reference to" and "a subtle allusion to"?

"An obvious reference to" indicates a direct and easily recognized connection, while "a subtle allusion to" suggests a more indirect or understated connection that may not be immediately apparent.