certain reference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain reference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when specifying a particular reference or source that is known or implied in the context. Example: "In the report, we will discuss a certain reference that highlights the importance of sustainable practices."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This study is of certain reference value for protecting metro tunnels adjacent excavation in soft soils.

Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology

The test has a certain reference value to the engineering practice.

Energy Procedia

Therefore, the present study is of certain reference value for designing CSG dams.

Water Science and Engineering

The new study provides a certain reference for photonic band gap engineering and designing the photonic-based devices.

Optik - International Journal for Light and Electron Optics

It is hoped that this designed application system can offer certain reference value for green roof management in urban area.

Procedia Environmental Sciences

The identification method is also of certain reference value for design optimization of other similar blasting projects.

Transactions of Nonferrous Metals Society of China

This paper has a certain reference value to design, development and scientific application of linear introduction motor.

Energy Procedia

The results will have a certain reference value to the design of polymer optical waveguide in M Z modulator.

Optics Communications

This article also forecasts present developmental directions, and expects to have a certain reference to later research and development.

Energy Procedia

As currently envisioned, access to video and to certain reference resources -- including the current edition of the New Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians -- would cost more.

The New York Times - Arts

For example, if you need to get a certain reference book and you are in the library, you will be notified.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "certain reference" when you want to indicate that you are referring to a specific, though perhaps not explicitly named, source or point of comparison. For example, in academic papers, clarify what constitutes your "certain reference" to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "certain reference" too frequently without providing enough context. Always ensure that your audience understands which reference you are alluding to, or replace it with a more specific term.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain reference" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "certain" modifies the noun "reference". It's used to denote a particular source, standard, or piece of information that is relevant to the context, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

76%

News & Media

8%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "certain reference" is a commonly used noun phrase to allude to a specific but not explicitly named source or point of comparison. It's grammatically sound and, as indicated by Ludwig, appears frequently in scientific and academic contexts. While generally appropriate, writers should ensure clarity by providing sufficient context to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "specific reference" or "particular reference" can be used when greater precision is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific reference

Replaces "certain" with "specific", emphasizing precision and clarity.

particular reference

Substitutes "certain" with "particular", highlighting the distinctness of the reference.

definite reference

Uses "definite" to indicate a clear and unambiguous reference.

precise reference

Emphasizes the exactness of the reference point.

specified reference

Highlights that the reference has been explicitly identified.

designated reference

Implies the reference has been officially or formally chosen.

given reference

Suggests the reference is already known or established.

identified reference

Focuses on the act of recognizing or pointing out the reference.

selected reference

Indicates that the reference has been chosen from a larger set.

aforementioned reference

Refers back to a reference that has been previously mentioned.

FAQs

How can I use "certain reference" in a sentence?

You can use "certain reference" when you're alluding to a specific source or point without explicitly naming it. For example: "This study builds upon a "certain reference" in the field of quantum physics."

What are some alternatives to "certain reference"?

Alternatives include "specific reference", "particular reference", or "designated reference" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "certain reference" or "specific reference"?

The choice between "certain reference" and "specific reference" depends on context. "Certain reference" implies the reference is known or understood within a context, while "specific reference" emphasizes clarity and precision.

What does "certain reference" imply that "general reference" does not?

"Certain reference" implies a particular, identifiable source, whereas "general reference" suggests a broader, less defined set of sources or information.