direct reference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "direct reference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are discussing a specific mention or citation of something, often in academic or analytical writing. Example: "In her paper, she made a direct reference to the study conducted by Smith in 2020."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Gleiberman's piece makes direct reference to that rumour.

The Guardian - Film

The statement made no direct reference to the LGBT community.

The Guardian

"Geometry of the Air of Santa Fe No. 14" has the most direct reference to time.

The New York Times

Johnson made no direct reference to Cox's death as he appeared at the London rally.

The Guardian

Not surprisingly, no justice made a direct reference to those events.

The New York Times

A second and very direct reference is made to Magritte in "Fishman" (1973).

The New York Times

(The circle hats with pushed back brim seemed a direct reference to Foster's character of Iris).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

McCoist drew direct reference to the O'Connor affair after his own player's ban was confirmed.

The Guardian - Sport

Only one group of drawings makes direct reference to the human form.

The Guardian - Arts

He made no direct reference to the latest controversies over the prime minister's private life.

The Guardian

Rodger made no direct reference to any films as inspirations for his killings.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "direct reference", ensure the connection you are highlighting is clear and easily understood by your audience. Avoid ambiguity by specifying what is being directly referenced.

Common error

Avoid using "direct reference" when a simpler term like "reference" or "mention" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "direct reference" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject or object in a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, it denotes a clear and explicit connection to something. The examples from Ludwig showcase its use in academic, news, and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "direct reference" is a noun phrase denoting an explicit connection or mention, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's grammatically correct and very common, particularly in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. While straightforward, avoid overuse in informal settings. For alternatives, consider "explicit mention" or "specific citation". Remember to ensure any "direct reference" is clear and contributes meaningfully to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explicit mention

This phrase highlights the clarity and unambiguity of the reference.

specific citation

This alternative emphasizes the act of quoting or formally acknowledging a source.

overt allusion

This suggests a more noticeable and less subtle reference.

unequivocal indication

This phrase focuses on the clarity and lack of ambiguity in the reference.

straightforward connection

This highlights the simplicity and ease of understanding the reference.

clear-cut link

This alternative emphasizes the distinct and unambiguous nature of the reference.

express declaration

Focuses on a clear and open statement.

patent acknowledgment

Highlights that the reference is easily recognizable and undeniable.

immediate connection

Stresses the lack of intermediaries or steps in the reference.

unmediated link

Indicates that the reference is not influenced or altered by other factors.

FAQs

How to use "direct reference" in a sentence?

You can use "direct reference" to indicate a clear and explicit connection to something. For example, "The author made a "direct reference" to Shakespeare's Hamlet in the text".

What can I say instead of "direct reference"?

You can use alternatives like "explicit mention", "specific citation", or "overt allusion" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "direct reference" or "indirect reference"?

Both ""direct reference"" and "indirect reference" are correct, but they have opposite meanings. A "direct reference" is a clear and explicit connection, while an indirect reference is a subtle or implied connection.

What's the difference between "direct reference" and "allusion"?

A ""direct reference"" is a clear and explicit mention, while an "allusion" is a more subtle and indirect mention. An allusion requires the reader to make a connection, whereas a "direct reference" is immediately apparent.