as reference point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as reference point" is not entirely correct; it should be "as a reference point." You can use it when discussing a standard or basis for comparison in various contexts, such as research, analysis, or decision-making.
Example: "We will use the previous year's sales figures as a reference point to evaluate our current performance."

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Now, with the help of a veteran campaigner, Paul May, she is hoping to make the films available online both as reference point and inspiration.

The Guardian

The measure in Uruguay is already emerging as reference point in parts of Latin America, where debates are intensifying over abortion.

The New York Times

The nation's world-class private sector, believers in agency rather than dependency, follows the old principle of "vivre heureux, vivre caché" — to live happily, live hidden — and thereby allows the functionary's order to prevail as reference point.

The New York Times

However, these penetration rates serve as reference point for the definition of public policy measures.

European Transport Research Review

Using as reference point a flight controls hydromechanical servo, numerical simulations were reported from viewpoint of servo time constant performance.

Journal of the Franklin Institute

Figure 3 Retrospective comparison of organ function between dying and surviving septic mice using death as reference point.

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Day three provided memories which will rise as reference points for years to come.

The Guardian - Sport

Such surveys are intended as reference points only, though they have become increasingly important.

The New York Times

They compared the sites with 556 natural wetlands that served as reference points.

The New York Times

The star pattern on the carpet is a clever allusion to the taped marks that dancers use as reference points.

The New York Times - Food

With these principles underlying our Commerce Clause jurisprudence as reference points, the proper resolution of the present cases is clear.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as reference point", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being compared and why it serves as a suitable standard. For clarity, specify the criteria used for comparison to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "as reference point" in overly complex sentences where simpler alternatives like "for comparison" would suffice. Overuse can lead to convoluted phrasing and reduce clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as reference point" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase. It typically modifies a verb or noun, indicating the standard or basis used for comparison or evaluation. Ludwig provides examples of its use in both scientific and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as reference point" is a prepositional phrase used to establish a benchmark or standard for comparison. While grammatically sound, Ludwig suggests that, according to its AI, the phrase benefits from the addition of "a" before "reference", improving its grammatical structure. It is commonly found in scientific and news contexts. When using "as reference point", ensure the comparison is clear and the criteria well-defined. Simpler alternatives, such as "for comparison", can enhance clarity in certain sentences. This comprehensive guide has been designed to assist with precise and effective usage of the phrase across various writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a standard

Focuses on the establishment of a consistent and reliable measure.

as a benchmark

Highlights the use of a standard for evaluation.

as a basis for comparison

Stresses the foundational aspect of comparison.

as a point of comparison

Emphasizes the act of comparing against a standard.

for comparison purposes

Clearly states the intention of using something for comparison.

as a frame of reference

Highlights the use of a conceptual framework for understanding.

in relation to

Indicates a connection or comparison to something else.

as a touchstone

Implies a critical test or criterion for quality.

with respect to

Similar to 'in relation to' but slightly more formal.

by way of reference

A formal way of introducing a point of comparison.

FAQs

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

You can use "as reference point" to indicate a standard or basis for comparison, such as "We used last year's data "as a reference" to evaluate this year's performance."

What are some alternatives to "as reference point"?

Alternatives include "as a benchmark", "as a standard", or "for comparison", depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to use "as reference point," or can I omit "as"?

While "reference point" can sometimes stand alone, including "as" provides a clearer grammatical structure in many sentences. Using "as a reference point" clarifies the role of the point being referenced.

What's the difference between "as reference point" and "as a frame of reference"?

"As reference point" generally refers to a specific standard for comparison, while "as a frame of reference" implies a broader conceptual framework for understanding or interpreting information.