refer to a map

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "refer to a map" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when instructing someone to look at a map for information or guidance regarding locations or directions. Example: "If you're unsure of the route, please refer to a map to find the best way to get there."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

He knows the bay's geography like the back of his hand and can navigate his way mangrove swamps without ever needing to refer to a map or compass.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

He lost out to Canadian Joel Wapnick - the contestant he beat into second place in 1993 - who put isogriv on the board, referring to a map reference line.

The Guardian

A correction on Sunday referring to a map of the route was published in error; the map was correct.

The New York Times

Talk about heat maps, and most people will assume you're referring to a map with colours used to represent intensity of something like poverty or crime.

The Guardian

"I can't live anywhere where it is red now," said Mr. Quazi, a job-seeking investment portfolio manager, referring to a map on CBS that showed support for Gov. George W. Bush of Texas in red.

The New York Times

Maybe that's why it's amusing to see a couple of Italians, befuddled and referring to a map, as a cyclist pedals past in the bike lane that has rearranged traffic on the southbound avenue.

The New York Times

The nine-dash line refers to a map that China drew up in the late 1940s that demarcates its territorial claims — about 80 percent of the South China Sea, whose seabed is believed to be rich in oil and natural gas.

The New York Times

After hearing the news of Austerlitz William Pitt referred to a map of Europe, "Roll up that map; it will not be wanted these ten years".

Wikipedia

He derided the remoteness of the town and the need for a railroad to it by repeatedly referring to a map and asking where Duluth was located.

Wikipedia

"They called it the 'blackest streets' because of the high crime and high poverty," she says referring to a map by Charles Booth that used black as an indication of poverty.

Vice

An atlas usually refers to a map with spatial recording of relevant information.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When giving directions, use "refer to a map" to clearly instruct someone to consult a map for visual guidance and orientation.

Common error

While digital maps are convenient, don't assume everyone has access. In written instructions, "refer to a map" should imply a physical or readily available map for broader accessibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "refer to a map" functions as an instruction or suggestion, directing someone to consult a map for information or guidance. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "refer to a map" is a grammatically correct and commonly used instruction to consult a map for information or direction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a usable phrase in English writing. While suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and general instructions, the phrase maintains a neutral register. For alternatives, consider "consult a map" or "look at a map" to diversify your language. A best practice is to use this phrase clearly in directions, keeping in mind the need for accessible map formats.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

consult a map

Replaces "refer" with "consult", emphasizing the act of seeking advice or information from the map.

check the map

Uses "check" instead of "refer", suggesting a quick verification or confirmation of information on the map.

look at a map

A more direct and simple way of saying "refer to a map", focusing on the visual aspect of using the map.

use a map as a reference

Rephrases the sentence to highlight the map's role as a reference tool.

turn to a map

Suggests a more deliberate action of seeking guidance from the map.

study the map

Implies a more detailed and careful examination of the map.

examine the map

Similar to "study the map", suggesting a close inspection for specific details.

orient yourself using a map

Focuses on the purpose of using the map, which is to understand your location and surroundings.

find directions on a map

Specifies the type of information being sought from the map.

navigate with a map

Highlights the use of the map for navigation purposes.

FAQs

How can I use "refer to a map" in a sentence?

You can use "refer to a map" to instruct someone to consult a map for directions or information, as in: "If you are unsure of the hiking trail, "refer to a map" before proceeding".

What's a good alternative to "refer to a map"?

Alternatives include "consult a map", "check the map", or simply "look at a map", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "referring to a map"?

Yes, "referring to a map" is grammatically correct and is often used to describe the action of someone currently using a map, as in: "The tourists were seen referring to a map to find their hotel".

What does it mean to "refer to a map"?

To "refer to a map" means to consult a map for information, guidance, or directions. It implies using the map as a reference source.