major reference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "major reference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a significant source of information or citation in academic or professional contexts. Example: "In her research paper, she cited a major reference that provided crucial data for her findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Given the choice of a fee or representation in major reference books, I think I know which most artists would prefer.

The Guardian - Arts

This isn't how most cookbooks are produced, but, as the authors point out, "that level of effort is the norm for a major reference work or college textbook".

The New Yorker

This time a major reference point is Traffic's classic 1967 album Mr Fantasy; its wistful English mood suits Weller's voice and songs to a tee.

The Guardian - Music

The first, in 1961, Parliamentary Socialism, was to become the major reference for debates on Labourism and social democracy in the 20th century.

The Guardian

Green plans to put his dictionary online for continuous revision, which is indeed the direction that many major reference works (including the O.E.D).

The New York Times - Books

ROBERTA SMITH This season's bonanza of art books brings, among other things, a raft of major reference volumes of the kind that are bound to be library staples.

The New York Times - Books

The Quiet Revolution is a major reference point used by successive Québec governments in power since the Liberal defeat in 1966.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the 1960s, Mr. Netanyahu edited in English two more major reference books: the "Encyclopedia Judaica" and "The World History of the Jewish People".

The New York Times

From 1955 to 1957, he did research in the faculty of history at Cambridge for his PhD thesis, published as Communism And British Intellectuals (1959), and still a major reference point on the subject.

The Guardian

For instance, light is a major reference point here, from photographs of fragile moths hovering close to glowing light bulbs to, in the books, quotations about light from ancient Greek thinkers and modern books on physics and linguistics.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

You can also contact the two major credit reference agencies, Experian and Equifax, and send them a letter from your council confirming your new address.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "major reference" in academic writing, clearly specify the context in which it holds significance to strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "major reference" for sources that only offer minor or tangential information. Ensure the reference genuinely contributes significantly to your topic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "major reference" functions as a noun phrase, where "major" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "reference". It indicates a significant or important source of information or a key point. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "major reference" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a significant source of information or a pivotal point of reference. As highlighted by Ludwig, it is deemed correct and appropriate for use in written English, across various contexts. It’s commonly found in academic papers, news articles, and formal documents, emphasizing the importance of a specific source or concept. While alternatives like "key source" or "significant reference" exist, "major reference" maintains a strong presence in formal discourse. Remember to use it judiciously, ensuring that the referenced material truly holds substantial importance to avoid overstating its significance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key source

Emphasizes the importance of the reference as a fundamental source of information.

primary source

Highlights the reference as an original or first-hand account.

significant reference

Stresses the importance and impact of the reference.

leading authority

Focuses on the reference as an expert or authoritative figure.

essential resource

Underlines the reference's necessity and value.

critical benchmark

Highlights the reference as a standard for comparison or evaluation.

important guideline

Emphasizes the reference's role in providing direction or advice.

central tenet

Focuses on the reference as a core principle or belief.

cornerstone principle

Highlights the reference as a basic and essential element.

chief precedent

Stresses the reference as a model or example for future cases.

FAQs

How can I use "major reference" in a sentence?

You can use "major reference" to highlight a particularly important source, such as, "The study used a well-known textbook as a "major reference" for its methodology".

What are some alternatives to "major reference"?

Alternatives to "major reference" include "key source", "primary source", or "significant reference", each conveying a similar sense of importance.

When is it appropriate to use the term "major reference"?

It’s suitable when you want to emphasize that a particular source or piece of information is crucial, fundamental, or has significantly influenced the topic you're discussing. It is also very relevant when referring to a "leading authority".

How does a "major reference" differ from a regular reference?

A "major reference" implies that the source is exceptionally important and has played a crucial role in shaping understanding or providing key evidence, while a regular reference simply acknowledges the source of information.