purely for reference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "purely for reference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something is provided only for informational purposes and not for action or decision-making. Example: "The following documents are included purely for reference, and no immediate action is required."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

As early as the 9th century, plainsong manuscripts had the signs "c" (celeriter, "quick") and "t" (trahere, "slow"), but such indications were exceptional, for the musical repertory was well known to the performers, and written sources served purely for reference purposes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The Hebrew Bible, or Christian Old Testament, does not elsewhere refer to the Adam and Eve story, except for the purely genealogical reference in I Chronicles 1 1.

Encyclopedia Britannica

(Banana for reference).

TechCrunch

For reference, Capcom.

TechCrunch

Just for reference purposes.

WikiHow

Compared to a purely feedforward setup, the feedback control system is commanded not to excite flexible vibrations by aggressive response of the controller, designed purely for the rigid body dynamics, to unmeasurable disturbances, not only to known reference command.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

Purely for entertainment.

The New York Times - Books

It was purely for me".

Independent

"Purely for research purposes.

The Guardian - Sport

I'm doing this purely for sport.

The New York Times - Books

Purely for research purposes, I quite understand.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "purely for reference", ensure the context clearly indicates that no action or decision is expected based on the referenced material. This helps avoid confusion and clarifies the intent of providing the information.

Common error

Avoid using "purely for reference" as a disclaimer when the information is actually critical to understanding or decision-making. If the information is essential, present it directly rather than relegating it to a mere reference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "purely for reference" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify the purpose or intention behind an action or statement. It clarifies that something is provided solely for informational purposes, as supported by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Science

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "purely for reference" is a grammatically correct and functional adverbial phrase used to indicate that information is provided solely for informational purposes, with no expectation of action or decision-making. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to limit the scope and intent of the information, clarifying that it's meant for background or context only. While its register is generally neutral, it leans towards formal usage, making it suitable for a variety of informative and professional settings. Although the phrase is relatively uncommon, it can be replaced with phrases like "solely for reference" or "for informational purposes only" to achieve a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

solely for reference

Replaces "purely" with "solely", emphasizing the exclusive purpose of reference.

simply for reference

Substitutes "purely" with "simply", indicating a straightforward purpose of reference.

strictly for reference

Emphasizes that the information is only to be used as reference and nothing else.

just for reference

Replaces "purely" with "just", making it slightly more informal.

only for reference

Replaces "purely" with "only", highlighting the singular purpose of reference.

for informational purposes only

Rephrases the concept to focus on the informational aspect.

for background information

Highlights the use of the information to provide context.

for guidance only

Implies that the reference is meant to provide direction.

for your information

A common expression indicating information is being provided, but might lack authority of reference material.

as a point of reference

Highlights the aspect of using the information as a comparison or standard.

FAQs

How can I use "purely for reference" in a sentence?

You can use "purely for reference" to indicate that something is provided only for informational purposes and not for action or decision-making. For example: "The following documents are included "purely for reference", and no immediate action is required."

What are some alternatives to saying "purely for reference"?

Some alternatives include "solely for reference", "simply for reference", or "for informational purposes only". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "purely for reference purposes"?

While not strictly redundant, "purely for reference purposes" can be seen as slightly verbose. The phrase ""purely for reference"" already implies that the intention is related to informational purposes.

What is the difference between "purely for reference" and "for guidance only"?

"Purely for reference" indicates that the material is for informational purposes only, without implying any direction. "For guidance only", on the other hand, suggests that the material is meant to provide direction or advice, but not necessarily a definitive solution.