as they refer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as they refer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing how something is mentioned or alluded to in a particular context. Example: "The researchers analyzed the data as they refer to the previous studies conducted in this field."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Since then, many international treaties have included reference to the precautionary principle, or, as they refer to it in the United States, the precautionary approach.

Environmental Health Perspectives

For one, relationships between multiples, as they refer to themselves, are often exceedingly close.

The New York Times

These "selectors", as they refer to them internally, are used to identify communications by presumed terrorists," said Grosser.

The Guardian - Tech

Many grassroots groups are calling for another massive boycott now to discredit the "mascarade", as they refer to it.

The Guardian - Opinion

An email to Texas notes "I have purposely not sent additional files as they refer to "Southern Egypt" by name".

The Guardian

O&CO., as they refer to themselves, operate more than 50 boutiques worldwide, including one at Grand Central.

The New York Times - Magazine

They were "planting a bug" — as they refer to concealing a microphone — in a midtown hotel room for a policewoman who was suspicious of the occupant.

The New Yorker

They are preoccupied not with the latest BBC reports, but with rumors that Jennifer Lopez, or as they refer to her, J. Lo, has been killed.

The New York Times - Arts

We also use additional descriptions to help make it clear we are referring to the group as they refer to themselves, such as 'so-called Islamic State'".

The Guardian

Following the custom of their tightly insular culture, the women betrayed no indication of anxiety over their men "down-range," as they refer to the battlefield of Iraq.

The New Yorker

They blanch at any criticism of the movement, as they refer to the broad work of the union under his watch.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as they refer", ensure it's clear who 'they' are and what specific term or concept they're referencing. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "as they refer" without clearly establishing who 'they' are. If the referent is unclear, rephrase to explicitly state who is doing the referring, preventing confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as they refer" serves as an introductory phrase. Its primary grammatical function is to attribute a particular term, name, or concept to a specific group or entity. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as they refer" is a versatile phrase used to attribute specific terms or concepts to particular groups. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use, especially in news, scientific, and business contexts. To ensure clarity, always specify who 'they' are and the exact term being referenced. Alternatives include "as they call it" or "as they term it". By avoiding ambiguity and understanding its proper context, you can effectively incorporate "as they refer" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as they call it

Focuses on the name or title given to something by a specific group.

as they term it

Emphasizes the specific terminology used by a group or individual.

as they designate it

Highlights the act of formally assigning a name or label.

as they allude to

Focuses on an indirect reference or suggestion made by a group.

as they mention

A more general way of indicating something that was briefly brought up.

as they indicate

Highlights how a group points out or signals something.

as they describe it

Focuses on the details and characteristics provided by a group.

in their words

Highlights the specific language used by a group when discussing something.

in their terminology

Emphasizes the specific jargon or vocabulary used by a group.

by their definition

Focuses on a formal or established meaning provided by a group.

FAQs

How can I use "as they refer" in a sentence?

Use "as they refer" to indicate how a specific group mentions or alludes to something. For example, "The scientists, "as they refer" to themselves, conducted the experiment."

What can I say instead of "as they refer"?

You can use alternatives like "as they call it", "as they term it", or "as they designate it depending on the context".

Is it correct to say "as they referred" instead of "as they refer"?

While grammatically valid, "as they referred" implies a past action, whereas "as they refer" suggests a current or ongoing practice of referring to something. Choose the tense that accurately reflects the context.

What's the difference between "as they refer to" and "as they mention"?

"As they refer to" typically highlights a specific term or concept used by a group. "As they mention" is a more general way of indicating that something was briefly brought up.