firm reference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "firm reference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating a strong or definite citation or mention of something, often in academic or formal contexts. Example: "In her research paper, she made a firm reference to the studies conducted by Smith and Johnson."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Both masses are also attached to a firm reference base by a mounting spring.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Though officials expect the European Central Bank to play a role in bond buying, at least in the short term until a new system is established, Germany is resisting any firm reference by leaders to this as part of the deal.

The New York Times

I knew I couldn't get the original version's singer, so to ensure that there was some other firm reference on the track to the original, I created - or rather re-created - the 'announcement' guitar part from scratch, using synths. .

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

One firm referenced the ruling when it contacted The Independent to argue that an online article about its client's criminal conviction should be removed, as it was now spent.

Independent

He added that when the firm did reference checks on how the software was performing, they saw that people were actually winning elections because of NationBuilder.

TechCrunch

Then came his reported involvement in a "private equity firm". The reference is to Transmax, a firm where Asubonten says he served as "managing director" starting in June 2013.

Los Angeles Times

Once you narrow your search, ask each potential firm for references and former patients you can interview.

The New York Times - Health

Firms suggest reference prices to anchor a customer's price offer and can provide reports to remind people of the value received.

Harvard Business Review

Before you sign with an SEO firm, get references, or case studies, or talk to people you know and see who they recommend.

Forbes

Although the minister did not name any specific firms, a reference to encryption suggests Facebook-owned WhatsApp is one of the platforms being called out (the UK's Home Secretary has also previously directly attacked WhatsApp's use of end-to-end encryption as an aid to criminals, as well as repeatedly attacking e2e encryption itself).

TechCrunch

And although most firms check references in one way or another, it's true that some 20% don't bother checking references at all.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "firm reference", ensure the source you're citing is indeed authoritative and supports your argument strongly. Avoid using it for minor or tangential mentions.

Common error

Avoid using "firm reference" if the connection to your argument is weak or the source is not widely accepted as authoritative. Overstating the strength can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "firm reference" functions as a noun phrase where "firm" modifies "reference". It emphasizes the strength and reliability of a citation or mention. Ludwig AI identifies its correctness and usability in writing.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "firm reference" denotes a strong and reliable citation, suitable for formal and academic contexts where authority and precision are paramount. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, although its frequency is relatively rare. Alternative phrases like "solid citation" or "strong citation" may serve as effective substitutes depending on the intended nuance. When employing "firm reference", ensure that the source genuinely warrants such emphasis to maintain credibility and avoid overstatement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

solid citation

Emphasizes the reliability and strength of the citation.

strong citation

Highlights the importance and validity of the reference.

definite mention

Focuses on the clarity and explicitness of the reference.

explicit reference

Stresses the directness and unambiguity of the reference.

unquestionable source

Indicates a source that is highly reliable and authoritative.

reliable source

Highlights the trustworthiness and accuracy of the reference's origin.

certain citation

Suggests a reference that is clear and leaves no room for doubt.

established authority

Points to a source widely recognized and accepted in its field.

validated reference

Implies that the reference has been confirmed or verified.

validated source

Implies that the source has been confirmed or verified.

FAQs

What does "firm reference" mean?

A "firm reference" indicates a strong, clear, and reliable citation or mention of something, often in formal writing or academic contexts.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "firm reference"?

Use "firm reference" when you want to emphasize the strength and reliability of the source you are citing, suggesting it plays a significant role in supporting your argument.

What can I say instead of "firm reference"?

You can use alternatives like "solid citation", "strong citation", or "definite mention" depending on the context.

Is "firm reference" a commonly used phrase?

While grammatically correct, "firm reference" is not as frequently used as other alternatives like "strong citation" or "reliable source".