makes no reference to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "makes no reference to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that something does not mention or allude to a particular subject or topic. Example: "The report makes no reference to the recent changes in policy, which is concerning for stakeholders."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Faraday Maxwell–Hertz theory of electromagnetic radiation, which is commonly referred to as Maxwell's theory, makes no reference to a medium in which the electromagnetic waves propagate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Apart from referring to maintaining zero-rated products he makes no reference to the impact on the poorest sections of society.

The Guardian

He makes no reference to policemen.

The New Yorker

He was watching the race with a French visitor – it makes no reference to Davison's actions.

The Guardian

But the report makes no reference to the possible shutdown of reactors failing stress tests.

The Guardian

But the president makes no reference to the possibility of tearing up the Le Touquet treaty.

The Guardian

The latest statement of objections makes no reference to the latest Microsoft operating platform, Windows XP.

The New York Times

It makes no reference to whether a detainee can have a lawyer.

The New York Times

32 10, and Ruth 4 8, Scripture makes no reference to transaction procedures.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The news story, noticeably, makes no reference to the treatment of the Telegraph journalist who asked the ethnicity question.

The Guardian

However, the official DWP food bank guidance for jobcentres makes no reference to alternative help from local authorities.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "makes no reference to", ensure that the absence of the reference is significant. If the reference is expected or relevant, the statement carries more weight.

Common error

Avoid using "makes no reference to" when a topic is mentioned indirectly or implied. This phrase is best reserved for situations where there is a complete and conspicuous absence of any mention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "makes no reference to" functions as a predicate in a sentence, indicating that a particular subject does not mention or allude to something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and clearly conveys a lack of connection or inclusion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

22%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Huffington Post

3%

The New Yorker

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "makes no reference to" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to indicate the absence of a specific topic or element. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is typically employed in neutral to formal registers, particularly within News & Media, Scientific, and Encyclopedia contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the absence is conspicuous and that alternative phrasings such as "does not mention" or "omits any mention of" are considered for subtle variations in meaning. Remember to avoid using it where a topic is merely implied or touched upon indirectly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

does not allude to

Focuses on the lack of indirect mention or suggestion, differing from direct reference.

omits any mention of

Emphasizes the complete absence of any mention, differing in strength from simply not referencing.

does not touch upon

Highlights the lack of engagement or discussion on a topic.

fails to acknowledge

Implies a deliberate oversight or neglect of a particular element.

bypasses any discussion of

Indicates an avoidance of a subject, often intentionally.

leaves unaddressed

Focuses on the lack of attention or resolution given to a matter.

is silent on the matter of

Emphasizes the absence of any comment or statement regarding a specific issue.

disregards any connection to

Stresses the absence of consideration or relevance to a related aspect.

includes no citation of

Highlights the lack of any specific citation or acknowledgement of something.

skirts around the subject of

Indicates an indirect or evasive approach, avoiding direct engagement with the topic.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "makes no reference to" in a sentence?

You can use alternatives like "does not mention", "omits any mention of", or "fails to acknowledge depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "makes no reference to" or "doesn't mention"?

"Makes no reference to" is generally considered more formal than "doesn't mention". Use "makes no reference to" in academic or professional writing for a more sophisticated tone.

When is it appropriate to use "makes no reference to" in writing?

Use "makes no reference to" when you want to emphasize the complete absence of a particular topic or element in a text, discussion, or analysis. It's particularly effective when the absence is notable or unexpected.

What is the difference between "makes no reference to" and "alludes to"?

"Makes no reference to" indicates a complete absence of mention, while "alludes to" suggests an indirect or implied reference. They are opposites in meaning.