as a reference for

USAGE SUMMARY

'as a reference for' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used when you want to refer to someone or something that provides information to support or validate an idea or statement. For example, "I included my professor's research paper as a reference for my project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Non-treated DCs served as a reference for treated DCs.

Nature

These results can serve as a reference for future investigations.

Composite Structures

Results can be used as a reference for engineering design.

Applied Mathematical Modelling

It is also required as a reference for numerical modeling.

Journal of Hydrodynamics, Ser. B

It served as a reference for sexing canine foetuses.

Animal Reproduction Science

This list will be used as a reference for the main activity.

The New York Times

(I knew I shouldn't have put my mum as a reference for that one).

The Guardian - Opinion

"Many started to see him as a reference for national politics," said Ellakuria Bastida.

The Guardian

The head is frequently used as a reference for the digital James Brown face.

The New York Times - Tech

We can use this as a reference for the time that has passed.

The New Yorker

Growth medium with and without MitoTracker were used as a reference for sample and control.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a reference for", ensure the source you are referencing is credible and relevant to the context. This strengthens the validity of your statements.

Common error

Avoid using sources that are not directly related to your topic. An irrelevant reference weakens your argument and can confuse your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a reference for" functions as a prepositional phrase, primarily used to indicate the purpose or role of something in providing information, support, or comparison. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples of its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

20%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a reference for" is a very common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to indicate that something serves as a source of information or support. Ludwig AI analysis reveals that it is frequently employed in scientific, academic, and news contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the referenced source is credible and relevant. The phrase communicates a clear and professional purpose, making it suitable for various formal and informal writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a guide for

Emphasizes the guiding function, similar but uses "guide" instead of "reference".

to serve as a benchmark for

Highlights the role of setting a standard for evaluation.

for guidance

Focuses on the guidance aspect, omitting the explicit mention of 'reference'.

to be used as a point of comparison for

More verbose, emphasizing the act of comparing against the subject.

for comparison

Highlights the comparison aspect, useful when contrasting elements.

for future reference

Specifies that the reference is intended for later use, adding a temporal dimension.

for informational purposes

Stresses the provision of information, slightly broader than a direct reference.

in relation to

Indicates a connection or relationship, less direct than a reference.

to inform

Action-oriented, indicating the act of providing information.

with respect to

Similar to 'in relation to', denoting a connection or aspect being considered.

FAQs

How can I use "as a reference for" in a sentence?

You can use "as a reference for" to indicate that something is being used to provide information or support. For example, "I used the textbook as a reference for my research paper."

What are some alternatives to "as a reference for"?

Some alternatives include "for guidance", "as a guide for", or "for comparison", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "as a reference for" in formal writing?

Yes, "as a reference for" is appropriate in formal writing. It clearly and professionally indicates that something is being used as a source of information.

What makes a good source to use "as a reference for"?

A good source should be credible, reliable, and relevant to your topic. Ensure that the source provides accurate information and supports your claims.