key reference point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key reference point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a significant or important benchmark or standard that serves as a basis for comparison or evaluation. Example: "In our analysis, the key reference point for measuring success will be the previous year's sales figures."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

For both teams, a gap of 19 years was a key reference point.

The Guardian - Sport

They duly did, in what may prove a key reference point for this clash.

The Guardian - Sport

Rather, it has become a key reference point in understanding political change throughout the world.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Beach Boys became a key reference point for bands, most of them celebrating youth.

Independent

His mother Francisca, who occasionally appeared in his films before her death in 1999, was his key reference point.

The Guardian - Film

It makes sense that struggle is a key reference point for the video, because Cash suffered his own troubles during the 1980s.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Traditional authority and key reference points have faced seismic crisis.

The Guardian - Opinion

Some key reference points, R1 and R6, also are shown in Figure 1.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Data collected will be used to develop a metric for POS exposure with measures developed to assess location, size, proximity and visibility of displays from key reference points such as till-points, and entrance areas.

BMC Public Health

If the authors left some critical information out, mislabeled a graph/figure, did not use appropriate statistics to analyze their data, or forgot a key reference, then point this out.

Science Magazine

Our key intellectual reference point in this discussion is Roberto Esposito and his thoughts on what he calls an 'immunitary paradigm' or 'regime' together with his critical perspectives on the origins and social fabrics of community, gift and solidarism.

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "key reference point" when establishing a specific standard or benchmark against which other items or ideas can be measured.

Common error

Avoid using "key reference point" without providing a clear and specific definition of what it represents. Ambiguity can lead to misinterpretation and undermine the validity of your analysis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key reference point" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it identifies a crucial standard or benchmark for comparison and evaluation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "key reference point" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote a crucial standard or benchmark for comparison and evaluation. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, it also indicates that it's not overly common, falling into the "Uncommon" frequency category. Usage is highest in News & Media, Science and Encyclopedias sources, indicating a formal to neutral register. When using this phrase, clearly define the reference point to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "crucial benchmark" or "essential standard" for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

crucial benchmark

Emphasizes the importance of the reference point as a standard for evaluation.

essential standard

Highlights the necessity of the reference point for proper assessment.

primary benchmark

Focuses on the reference point as the main standard.

fundamental criterion

Stresses the foundational nature of the reference point as a basis for judgment.

significant point of comparison

Highlights the importance of using the reference point for comparison purposes.

important touchstone

Uses a metaphor to describe the reference point as a test of quality or genuineness.

central point of orientation

Focuses on the reference point's role in providing direction or understanding.

major frame of reference

Emphasizes the overall context or perspective provided by the reference point.

principal point of assessment

Highlights the reference point's role in the evaluation process.

vital comparison metric

Stresses the importance of the reference point as a measure for comparison.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "key reference point" in a sentence?

To effectively use "key reference point", ensure you clearly define what the reference point is and why it's important. For example, "In evaluating project success, the "budgeted costs" serve as a "key reference point" for measuring actual expenditures".

What are some alternatives to "key reference point"?

Alternatives to "key reference point" include "crucial benchmark", "essential standard", or "primary benchmark". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it redundant to use "key" with "reference point"?

While "reference point" alone implies a point of reference, adding "key" emphasizes its importance or centrality. It signifies that this particular reference point is crucial for understanding or evaluation, making the phrase appropriate when you want to highlight significance.

How does a "key reference point" differ from a general "reference point"?

A "reference point" is any point used for comparison or orientation. A "key reference point" specifically denotes a particularly significant or crucial reference point, indicating it holds more weight or importance than other possible reference points. It implies a higher level of relevance or impact.