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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
point of reference date
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "point of reference date" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when specifying a particular date that serves as a basis for comparison or context in a discussion or analysis. Example: "The point of reference date for this study is January 1, 2020, which allows us to evaluate changes over the past two years."
✓ Grammatically correct
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
60 human-written examples
Controls were assigned reference dates to correspond with the distribution of reference dates among cases.
The advantage of using a approach in which the point of reference is the absolute risk is that it adds a public health perspective to the knowledge gathered to date regarding late entry into HIV care.
Science
I had no point of reference".
News & Media
"There's no point of reference.
News & Media
Another point of reference is Hitchcock.
News & Media
It is his only fixed point of reference.
News & Media
But we can use Facebook as a point of reference.
News & Media
(Point of reference: the huge Chevrolet Suburban has 108.2 cubic feet).
News & Media
The Placa de Catalunya is a handy point of reference.
News & Media
Nor are they an appreciated point of reference.
News & Media
Again, SPAB (see above) is a useful point of reference.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "point of reference date", ensure the context clearly establishes why this date is crucial for comparison or analysis. For instance, "The "point of reference date" for this financial analysis is January 1, 2024, enabling a year-over-year comparison."
Common error
Avoid using "point of reference date" when a simpler term like "reference date" or "baseline date" suffices. Overusing the longer phrase can make your writing sound verbose and less clear.
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
3.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "point of reference date" functions as a noun phrase, specifying a particular date that acts as a standard for comparison or a fixed point in time for analysis. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase can be used to establish a clear temporal context.
Frequent in
Science
0%
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Science
0%
News & Media
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Formal & Business
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Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "point of reference date" is grammatically correct, though less common than alternatives like "reference date" or "baseline date". Ludwig AI indicates it is usable, but its infrequency suggests a need for careful contextualization to ensure clarity. While it serves to specify a date used for comparison, simpler terms are often preferred to avoid verbosity. Therefore, use it judiciously in formal or scientific contexts where emphasizing a specific temporal anchor is crucial. When the emphasis is not needed, you may choose to use the more common expression "reference date".
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
Reference date
Omits "point of" for a more concise term.
Benchmark date
Substitutes "reference" with "benchmark", indicating a standard for comparison.
Baseline date
Replaces "reference" with "baseline", emphasizing its use as a starting point.
Index date
Uses "index" to indicate a date serving as an indicator for other data.
Comparison date
Directly specifies the date's function for comparison.
Standard date
Highlights the use of the date as a standard measure.
Base date
Abbreviates "baseline date" to a simpler phrase.
Starting date
Focuses on the date as the beginning of a period or analysis.
Datum date
Uses "datum" to specify a fixed point for measurement.
Control date
Implies a controlled setting where this date is a reference.
FAQs
How can I use "point of reference date" in a sentence?
You can use "point of reference date" to specify a particular date that serves as a basis for comparison or context in a discussion or analysis. For instance: "The "point of reference date" for this study is January 1, 2020, which allows us to evaluate changes over the past two years."
What are some alternatives to "point of reference date"?
Alternatives include "reference date", "benchmark date", or "baseline date", which are often more concise and widely understood.
Is "point of reference date" grammatically correct?
Yes, "point of reference date" is grammatically correct, but it's less common than alternatives like "reference date". The addition of "point of" doesn't violate any grammatical rules, but it can make the phrase slightly more verbose.
When should I use "point of reference date" instead of "reference date"?
Using "point of reference date" may be appropriate when you want to emphasize that the date is a specific point used as a foundation for comparison. However, in most contexts, "reference date" is sufficient and clearer.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
3.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested