be used as a reference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be used as a reference" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you need to refer to something that someone has previously mentioned or discussed. For example, "His previous comments can be used as a reference for this new discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Results can be used as a reference for engineering design.

Applied Mathematical Modelling

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

The New York Times

Perhaps, ironically, it will even be used as a reference point for future success.

The Guardian

It can be used as a reference and as a general textbook.

The Guardian

Present this report to your school's guidance office or career counselor to be used as a reference for students.

The New York Times

Moreover, these methods can be used as a reference for pilot manipulating during airdrop.

Chinese Journal of Aeronautics

This article can be used as a reference to investigate EA qualification and its models.

Procedia Computer Science

This important outcome will be used as a reference for further improvements.

Energy Procedia

The design can be used as a reference for new industrial construction or retrofit applications.

Energy and Buildings

The findings can be used as a reference in the design of web maps.

Displays

The results can be used as a reference in designing actual absorption chiller.

International Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "be used as a reference", ensure the material being referenced is easily accessible and clearly relevant to the topic at hand. This enhances the usability and value of your reference.

Common error

Avoid using overly specialized or inaccessible material as a reference without providing sufficient context or explanation. Ensure that the audience can readily understand the reference's significance; otherwise, it loses its value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be used as a reference" functions as a passive verb phrase indicating that something will serve as a source of information, guidance, or comparison. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

56%

News & Media

23%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be used as a reference" is a versatile and widely accepted expression indicating that something serves as a source of information, guidance, or comparison. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various formal and neutral contexts, particularly in science, news media, and academia. The phrase is frequently employed to establish a standard or provide context for future actions, decisions, or analyses. Remember to ensure that the referenced material is accessible and relevant to your audience. Using more specialized or inaccessible references could decrease the impact and usefulness of this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serve as a guide

This alternative emphasizes the guiding aspect of the reference.

act as a benchmark

This suggests the reference provides a standard for comparison.

be a point of comparison

This highlights the comparative function of the reference.

provide a framework

This emphasizes the structuring aspect offered by the reference.

offer guidance

This focuses on the aspect of providing direction.

be consulted

This suggests the reference is sought for information.

furnish information

This emphasizes the informational content of the reference.

act as a basis

This suggests the reference serves as the foundation for something.

supply context

This highlights the function of the reference in providing background information.

be a touchstone

This implies the reference is a reliable and established standard.

FAQs

How can I use "be used as a reference" in a sentence?

You can use "be used as a reference" to indicate that something will serve as a source of information or guidance. For example, "This study can "be used as a reference" for future research."

What are some alternatives to "be used as a reference"?

Alternatives include phrases like "serve as a guide", "act as a benchmark", or "provide a framework", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "be used as a reference" or "serve as a reference"?

Both "be used as a reference" and "serve as a reference" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific nuance you want to convey.

In what contexts is "be used as a reference" most appropriate?

"Be used as a reference" is appropriate in academic, scientific, and professional contexts where information or standards are established for future use or comparison. For instance, in a research paper, a prior study might "be used as a reference" to support new findings.