initial point of reference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "initial point of reference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a starting point or baseline for analysis, comparison, or understanding in various contexts. Example: "To better understand the changes in the data, we need to establish an initial point of reference for our analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The initial point of reference here is Simone de Beauvoir (1953), who famously defined women as the "Other".

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Under the relative reference coordinates with (North, East) as the variable, the initial point of GPS-indicated trajectory lies in (32.3088, 58.3222), and the initial point of INS-indicated trajectory lies in (38.5096, 42.4688).

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Note the different initial point of the firing threshold.

Nature

How did the initial point of contact come about?

Huffington Post

Taking advantage of this opportunity, the ABC/2 method was also applied, using the initial CT as a point of reference, to assess the growth index of the haematoma in the nonsurvivor group as a novel approach.

BioMed Research International

I had no point of reference".

The New York Times - Arts

"There's no point of reference.

The New York Times

Another point of reference is Hitchcock.

The New Yorker

It is his only fixed point of reference.

The Guardian - Opinion

But we can use Facebook as a point of reference.

The Guardian - Tech

(Point of reference: the huge Chevrolet Suburban has 108.2 cubic feet).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "initial point of reference", ensure it is clearly defined and relevant to the context being discussed. This helps avoid ambiguity and provides a solid foundation for subsequent analysis or discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "initial point of reference" interchangeably with the 'current' state. Clearly distinguish whether you are referring to the starting position or a subsequent point in time to prevent misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "initial point of reference" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a specific starting point for evaluation, comparison, or understanding. This is consistent with Ludwig's analysis, which confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

26%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "initial point of reference" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase for denoting a starting point for analysis or comparison. While less frequent than simpler alternatives, it adds specificity. As highlighted by Ludwig, it's crucial to define this reference clearly to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "starting reference point" or "baseline reference" to adjust the tone. Its primary contexts include news, science, and academic writing, making it versatile for varied communication needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

starting reference point

Replaces "initial" with "starting" and reverses the order of "reference" and "point", maintaining the original meaning.

baseline reference

Emphasizes the use of the reference as a baseline for comparison or measurement.

original frame of reference

Highlights the original or first frame of reference used in a particular context.

primary benchmark

Indicates the main standard or point against which something is measured.

initial standard for comparison

Focuses on the role of the reference as a standard used for comparison.

fundamental point of comparison

Emphasizes the foundational nature of the reference point for making comparisons.

starting place for analysis

Highlights the role of the reference point as the origin for conducting analysis.

foundational point of assessment

Indicates that the reference point serves as a base for assessment.

preliminary point of orientation

Stresses the reference point as something used to gain orientation or direction.

basic point of departure

Implies that the reference point is the starting point from which further analysis or action begins.

FAQs

How can I use "initial point of reference" in a sentence?

You can use "initial point of reference" to establish a starting point for comparison or analysis. For example, "To understand the extent of the changes, we need to establish an "initial point of reference".

What's another way to say "initial point of reference"?

Alternatives to "initial point of reference" include "starting reference point", "baseline reference", or "original frame of reference", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What is the difference between "initial point of reference" and "point of reference"?

"Initial point of reference" specifies the starting or original reference point, whereas "point of reference" can refer to any reference point, not necessarily the first one. The word initial indicates the first one.

When is it appropriate to use "initial point of reference"?

It's appropriate to use "initial point of reference" when you need to emphasize the starting or original reference point in a process, analysis, or comparison. This clarifies that you are referring to the beginning state or condition.