positive reference

USAGE SUMMARY

'positive reference' is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to describe something that speaks favorably or positively about a person, idea, or thing. For example: The professor wrote a positive reference for the student, helping her to get accepted into her program of choice.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It is unacceptable to reflect the president's statement as a positive reference to Hitler's Germany".

Independent

Linda explains that if she stays a few weeks longer, then the staff here can not only give her a positive reference, but have some leverage in helping her find a two- or three-bedroom house.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

BBR was used as positive reference.

Journal of Chromatography B

Ampicillin was used as positive reference.

Chemistry Central Journal

The activity of 3sf is almost 1000 times that of the positive reference compound (CL-385319).

European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry

Two positive reference strains of Norwalk and 186 were also included in the test.

AMB Express

The positive reference is 100% hemolytic, and the negative reference is 0%.

Progress in Biomaterials

Glucose (CAS 50-99-7) - the positive reference compound, not surface active.

Environmental Sciences Europe

A Zn(NO3 2 solution was used as a positive reference to assess the toxicity of Zn2 +.

NanoImpact

The positive reference organisms spanned the various classes of Proteobacteria, suggesting that these primers are probably generic.

FEMS Microbiology Ecology

The toxicity results of reclaimed water were converted into the equivalent concentrations of the corresponding positive reference substances (EQC).

Journal of Environmental Sciences

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In professional settings, ensure that a "positive reference" is backed by specific examples and achievements to enhance credibility.

Common error

Avoid using overly generic adjectives to describe a "positive reference". Instead of saying "a very good positive reference", specify the qualities that make it positive, such as "a detailed and supportive positive reference".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "positive reference" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "positive" is an adjective modifying the noun "reference". According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It often serves to specify the type of reference being made, emphasizing its favorable or supportive nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

53%

News & Media

26%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "positive reference" is a commonly used phrase that signifies a favorable endorsement, validation, or standard. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable. Its usage spans various contexts, including scientific research, professional recommendations, and general endorsements. While it's crucial to provide specific details to avoid vagueness, the phrase remains a valuable tool for conveying support and approval in both formal and informal settings. Alternatives include "favorable recommendation" and "glowing endorsement". The key is to ensure clarity and relevance to maximize its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

positive endorsement

Uses a synonym for reference, focusing on the approval aspect.

favorable recommendation

Emphasizes the act of recommending in a positive light rather than a general reference.

glowing endorsement

Highlights the enthusiastic and commendatory nature of the reference.

excellent character reference

Specifies that the reference is related to someone's character and is of high quality.

supportive testimonial

Focuses on the personal aspect of support given in the form of a reference.

beneficial referral

Implies that the reference provides a benefit or advantage.

affirmative benchmark

Shifts the context to a standard that is considered favorable or desirable.

favorable citation

Emphasizes the positive aspect of quoting or mentioning something.

encouraging citation

Highlights the act of referencing something in a way that promotes or supports it.

laudatory mention

Focuses on the praiseworthy nature of the reference.

FAQs

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

You can use "positive reference" to describe a favorable recommendation, a helpful standard, or a supportive statement. For example, "The candidate received a "favorable recommendation" from her previous employer" or "Ampicillin was used as "positive reference" in the experiment".

What's an alternative to "positive reference"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "glowing endorsement", "supportive testimonial", or "affirmative benchmark".

In science, what does "positive reference" mean?

In scientific contexts, a "positive reference" refers to a known standard or control that is expected to produce a positive result, used to validate the accuracy and reliability of an experiment. It could also be an "affirmative benchmark".

How important is a "positive reference" when applying for a job?

A "positive reference" is very important. It provides potential employers with validation of your skills, experience, and character from a trusted source. It can significantly increase your chances of getting hired.