as a refresher

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a refresher" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that the following information will serve to remind someone of something they may already know or have learned previously. Example: "Before we start the meeting, I want to go over the main points from our last discussion as a refresher."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Keep some on hand as a refresher throughout the meal.

The Washington Post

This is a lively wine that does its job as a refresher.

The New York Times

As a refresher, first Mr. Obama opposed same-sex marriage but supported civil unions.

The New York Times

(As a refresher, they were Syracuse, Pittsburgh, Louisville and Notre Dame).

The New York Times - Sports

Intended to prepare students for 6.003 but could also serve as a refresher for 6.011.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

So, just as a refresher, it's always good to remember that we live on an ocean planet.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

They have an obligation to scrutinize his supposed virtues as a refreshing counterpolitician.

The New York Times

Dinsmore described the changes as "a refresh not a relaunch".

The Guardian

Think of it as a refreshing change from pumpkin pie.

The New York Times

"People looked at him as a refreshing change.

The New York Times

Try Major General Housecleaning as a fillip, as a refreshing alteration.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a refresher", ensure that the information you are about to present was indeed previously discussed with your audience; otherwise, it's not a refresher but new information.

Common error

Avoid using "as a refresher" excessively within a single piece of writing. Too many reminders can make your writing feel repetitive and may suggest you doubt your audience's comprehension. Choose alternative phrasing or integrate reminders more subtly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a refresher" functions as an introductory phrase, specifically an adverbial phrase. It sets the stage for a recapitulation of previously presented information. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where the phrase precedes a summary or reminder.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

20%

Science

18%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a refresher" is a versatile and grammatically sound introductory phrase used to signal a reminder or summary of previously discussed information. As Ludwig AI indicates, it enjoys widespread use across various contexts, including news, academia, and science, indicating its neutrality in terms of register. While it is common and effective, it is important to avoid overuse and consider alternative phrasings to maintain writing flow and avoid redundancy. Understanding its function and context can improve clarity and engagement in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a reminder

Replaces "refresher" with a more direct synonym, maintaining similar formality.

to recap

Offers a concise way to introduce a summary of previous information.

by way of review

Presents a slightly more formal alternative, suitable for academic or professional settings.

for your convenience

Shifts focus to the audience's benefit, implying a helpful reminder.

to jog your memory

Uses a more informal and figurative expression, suggesting a gentle prompting of recollection.

as a brief overview

Implies providing a condensed summary rather than a full repetition.

let me remind you

A more direct and assertive way of introducing a reminder.

just to reiterate

Focuses on the act of repeating something for clarity or emphasis.

for clarification purposes

Suggests providing the reminder to avoid confusion or misunderstanding.

in case you've forgotten

A more direct and potentially less polite way of introducing a reminder.

FAQs

How can I use "as a refresher" in a sentence?

You can use "as a refresher" to introduce previously discussed information, like: "As a refresher, the meeting will be held next Tuesday."

What can I say instead of "as a refresher"?

You can use alternatives like "as a reminder", "to recap", or "by way of review" depending on the context.

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

Yes, "as a refresher" is generally acceptable in formal writing, though phrases like "by way of review" may be more suitable for highly formal contexts.

What's the difference between "as a refresher" and "in case you forgot"?

"As a refresher" is a polite way to remind someone of something. "In case you forgot" can sound condescending, so it should be used with caution and only when appropriate.