mean reference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mean reference" is not commonly used in written English and may be unclear without context.
It could potentially be used in discussions about the nature of references that convey negativity or hostility, but clarity is essential. Example: "The author's mean reference to the character's flaws detracted from the overall message of the story."

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

According to Ambient Air Quality Standards issued in February 2012, the annual mean reference concentration limit value is 6 ng/meaningning the concentration detected during the course of this research is 3.85 times the limit.

The Guardian

Based on the mean reference values of the general population, expected mean scores were calculated, meaning the HRQOL scores that would be observed in the general population if they had equivalent age and gender distribution as the RTX patients [ 35].

BMC Nephrology

The mean reference vessel diameter was 2.86 ± 0.49 mm, mean lesion length 8.9 ± 4.3 mm, and prevalence of diabetes mellitus in patients was 13%.

The American Journal of Cardiology

The mean reference sampling site IBI scores were found to be similar to both least and most disturbed sites (Mann–Whitney U-test; P < 0.05).

Ecological Indicators

Fourteen soil cores were collected along two transects in a cultivated field and two reference sites were selected to establish the mean reference inventories for both 137Cs and 210Pbex.

Journal of Environmental Radioactivity

A value of 5460 ± 880 Bq m−2 (n = 10; CV = 16%) was determined for the 137Cs mean reference inventory for both sites, given as areal activity ± standard deviation, at 2σ confidence interval.

Journal of Environmental Radioactivity

The mean reference height h′ in 2013 is higher about 0.9 km than that in 2014 and the mean sharpness factor β in 2013 is higher by 0.07 km−1 than that in 2014.

Advances in Space Research

Mean reference vessel diameter was 2.55 ± 0.36 and 3.25 ± 0.46 mm in the small and non-small vessel groups, respectively (P < 0.001).

Duke University

Mean patient age was 62.6 years, mean reference vessel diameter was 3.07 mm before the procedure, and mean lesion length was 11.04 mm.

Duke University

Mass anomalies at the Moho are defined with respect to a mean reference sphere at a depth of 33 km.

Earth, Planets and Space

Anomalous masses are added above or below the mean reference depth of 220 km corresponding to positive and negative mass anomalies, respectively.

Earth, Planets and Space

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "mean reference", ensure the context clearly defines what the reference is and why the mean is relevant. This is particularly important in technical or scientific writing to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that the "mean reference" is universally understood. Always specify the population or data set from which the mean is derived to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mean reference" functions primarily as a compound adjective modifying a noun. It describes something that serves as a standard or point of comparison based on an average value. Ludwig's examples shows it is mostly used in science.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

75%

Academia

15%

News & Media

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "mean reference" serves as a crucial term in scientific and academic contexts, providing a standardized benchmark for comparative analyses. Ludwig AI indicates its usage spans across various scientific domains, from environmental studies to medical research. While the phrase is grammatically acceptable, clarity is essential: always specify the source and scope of the reference data. Consider alternatives like "average baseline" or "typical benchmark" in more general contexts to enhance understanding. Remember, specifying the sample and populations are important when using the phrase "mean reference".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reference average

Inverts the original phrase while retaining the core meaning.

average baseline

Focuses on the average value used as a starting point for comparison.

typical benchmark

Highlights the standard or typical value used for evaluation.

standard comparison point

Emphasizes the use of a standard for making comparisons.

average comparative value

Stresses the average value used for comparing different elements.

usual frame of reference

Implies a common or standard perspective for understanding data.

representative baseline

Highlights a baseline that accurately represents the data set.

median benchmark

Uses the median instead of the mean as a point of comparison.

normalized standard

Indicates a standard that has been adjusted for consistency.

typical level for comparison

Focuses on typical values when making comparisons.

FAQs

How is "mean reference" typically used in scientific writing?

In scientific contexts, "mean reference" often refers to a baseline or standard value calculated from a control group or established data set. It's used as a point of comparison for experimental results or observations. For instance, you might compare a patient's test results against a "normal range".

What's a good alternative to "mean reference" in a more general context?

If you're not in a technical field, consider using phrases like "average baseline", "typical benchmark", or "standard comparison point" for better clarity. The specific context should guide your choice of words, especially when working in formal and business setting.

Is "mean reference" always the most accurate term to use?

Not necessarily. Depending on the distribution of your data, the "median value" might be a more robust measure of central tendency, especially if your data contains outliers. Consider whether the mean accurately represents your reference point.

How can I ensure clarity when using the term "mean reference"?

Always define the scope and source of your reference data. Specify the population, sample size, and any relevant characteristics used to calculate the mean. For example, say "the mean reference value for serum concentration in healthy adults" instead of just "mean reference".