just referring

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "just referring" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to clarify that you are mentioning or alluding to something without going into detail. Example: "I was just referring to the report we discussed last week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I am not just referring to her gender.

The New Yorker

Perhaps he was just referring to flaws in the testing process, but those suggestions of nefariousness ("a lot of things that we learned about the collector"), in light of what amounts to his admission on Monday that he subsequently violated the league's drug policies, seem especially scurrilous on Braun's part.

The New Yorker

He wasn't just referring to political gridlock.

The Guardian - Opinion

And I'm not just referring to his website comparing meerkats.

Independent

I'm not just referring to Ramirez and Ortiz, either.

The New York Times

Allen wasn't just referring to the ear move but to Stephenson's antics throughout the game.

The New Yorker

"Plenty change," a Bridgetown bar-owner grinned, and he wasn't just referring to the mounds of cash he was counting.

The Economist

I felt he wasn't just referring to the Soviet government but to our own at the time.

The New Yorker

'I am not just referring to my goals - I have been very happy with my overall play as well.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

We will not try to repeat the overall discussion here, but just refer to some good references ([ 5- 11]).

BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making

Here we just refer to [16] and the references therein.

Boundary Value Problems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "just referring" to clarify that you are making a brief or indirect reference to something without delving into extensive detail. For example, "I'm just referring to the data we discussed earlier."

Common error

Avoid using "just referring" excessively as a conversational filler or a way to downplay the significance of your statement. Ensure that the reference serves a clear purpose and adds value to the communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "just referring" functions primarily as a present participle verb phrase, often used to modify a preceding clause. It indicates the action of making a brief or indirect reference to something. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is generally accepted as grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Academia

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "just referring" is a versatile phrase used to indicate a brief or indirect reference. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts, predominantly in news and media. While adaptable, it's essential to avoid overuse and ensure its inclusion adds value to the communication. Alternative phrases like "merely alluding" or "simply mentioning" can provide variety. When writing, remember its purpose is to qualify and contextualize without delving deeply into a topic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

merely alluding

Emphasizes the indirectness and brevity of the reference.

simply mentioning

Highlights the straightforward and uncomplicated nature of the reference.

briefly touching upon

Indicates a short and concise treatment of a topic.

indirectly alluding to

Stresses the lack of directness in the reference.

only mentioning

Highlights exclusivity of reference.

casually mentioning

Highlights the nonchalant manner in which the reference is made.

alluding in passing

Emphasizes the incidental nature of the reference.

referring cursorily

Focuses on the superficial or hasty nature of the reference.

making a passing reference

Indicates a fleeting and not particularly detailed reference.

touching on briefly

Implies a short and superficial treatment of the subject.

FAQs

What does "just referring" mean?

The phrase "just referring" implies that you are making a brief or indirect reference to something, without going into extensive detail or analysis. It indicates a light touch on a particular subject.

How can I use "just referring" in a sentence?

You can use "just referring" to indicate that you are making a quick or indirect reference. For example, "I'm "just referring" to the report we reviewed last week when I mention the budget constraints."

What can I say instead of "just referring"?

You can use alternatives like "simply mentioning", "merely alluding", or "briefly touching upon" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "just referring" or "simply mentioning"?

Simply mentioning might be perceived as slightly more formal than "just referring", but both are generally acceptable in most contexts. The choice depends on the overall tone and style of your writing or speech.