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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
reffered by
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"referred by" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to indicate who is responsible for, or the source of, introducing someone or something. For example: "I was referred by my friend to this restaurant, and I'm glad I came!".
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Academia
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
The women were either self-referred, referred by female organizations, or referred by the Police, with the majority being referred by female organizations or self-referred.
The women were self-referred or referred by physicians.
Science
Many were referred by their obstetrician.
News & Media
They are referred by frontline care professionals.
News & Media
The number of cases referred by other agencies or sources.
Academia
Pre-referral matters referred by an appellate court.
Academia
And finally, here are criminal prosecutions referred by the IRS.
News & Media
The Frosts had consulted a homeopath referred by Frost's mother.
News & Media
Instead it was referred by MacLaren on 9 January.
News & Media
Alqunun's case is different because she was referred by UNHCR.
News & Media
About 70% are referred by the juvenile justice system.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "referred by", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is doing the referring and who or what is being referred. This avoids ambiguity and ensures clarity in your writing.
Common error
Avoid using "referred by" when the source of information is not directly providing a recommendation or direction. Instead, consider using terms like "mentioned by" or "cited by" if the source is merely referencing the subject.
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "referred by" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb, indicating the source or agent responsible for a referral. As Ludwig AI states, this phrase is correct and usable in written English, showing its acceptance in standard communication.
Frequent in
Science
56%
News & Media
25%
Academia
15%
Less common in
Formal & Business
4%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "referred by" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase indicating the source of a referral. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to show who or what directed someone or something to another entity. Its prevalence across science, news, and academic sources underscores its versatility and acceptance in both formal and neutral registers. Remember to use this phrase when you want to specify the entity responsible for making a referral, ensuring clarity and accuracy in your communication. Be mindful of contexts where other phrases like "recommended by" or "suggested by" might be more appropriate to convey the intended meaning.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
Recommended by
Focuses on endorsement or suggestion rather than direct referral.
Directed by
Emphasizes guidance or management from a source.
Guided by
Highlights the act of being led or advised by someone.
Endorsed by
Highlights approval and support from a particular entity.
Advised by
Emphasizes counsel or suggestion provided by an entity.
Chosen by
Highlights the act of being selected or picked by someone or something.
Sponsored by
Indicates financial or other support, rather than referral.
Designated by
Focuses on the act of officially assigning or selecting by someone.
Submitted by
Highlights the act of presenting something by someone.
Authorized by
Focuses on permission or approval from a source.
FAQs
How can I use "referred by" in a sentence?
Use "referred by" to indicate who or what is directing someone or something to another entity. For example, "The patient was "referred by" their primary care physician."
What are some alternatives to "referred by"?
Alternatives include phrases like "recommended by", "directed by", or "guided by", depending on the specific context.
Is it correct to say "reffered by" or should it be "referred by"?
"Reffered by" is a misspelling. The correct spelling is ""referred by"", with two 'r's.
What's the difference between "referred by" and "suggested by"?
"Referred by" implies a more direct action of sending someone or something, while "suggested by" indicates a recommendation or proposal. The former is more directive, while the latter is advisory.
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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
85%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested