specific reference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'specific reference' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to something that has been previously mentioned, to make sure that your reader is clear on the exact thing to which you are referring. For example: "She mentioned in her presentation that there were further resources on the topic, but she did not give any specific reference."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We were looking for specific reference.

The Guardian

He made no specific reference to Mr. Moussaoui.

The New York Times

The "meaning of life" was a specific reference, too.

The New Yorker

Last week's plea also made specific reference to Trump.

The Washington Post

There is no specific reference to the new year.

Britannica

McLuhan made specific reference to it on many occasions.

The Guardian - Tech

Make specific reference to Boyd and or Smith's arguments.

University of California, Berkeley

You are looking for a specific reference in our database.

Yale University

"V" has no message as such and its humanity reaches beyond a specific reference.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Carter made no specific reference to the offer during his address.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The prevalence of any given SNP may be estimated with population-specific reference panels.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In academic and professional writing, always provide a "specific reference" to support claims and arguments, enhancing credibility and allowing for verification.

Common error

Avoid using "specific reference" when the reference is still unclear or broad. Provide enough detail so the reader can easily identify the exact source or instance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "specific reference" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig AI indicates that it is commonly used to denote a particular mention or citation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

25%

Science

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "specific reference" is a commonly used noun phrase that provides clarity and precision by pointing to a particular source, detail, or instance. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for neutral to formal contexts, particularly in news, academic, and scientific writing. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to ensure the context clearly identifies the intended reference. Common alternatives include "explicit mention" and "direct citation", offering nuanced ways to convey similar meanings. Avoiding vagueness is key to effective communication with "specific reference".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explicit mention

Focuses on the clarity and directness of the reference.

direct citation

Highlights the act of quoting or citing a source directly.

particular instance

Emphasizes a single, concrete example or case.

precise indication

Stresses the accuracy and exactness of the reference.

detailed account

Suggests a comprehensive and thorough description.

concrete example

Highlights the tangibility and clarity of the illustration.

clear allusion

Focuses on an indirect but easily understood reference.

unequivocal statement

Emphasizes the lack of ambiguity in the reference.

pointed remark

Highlights a comment that is directly relevant and targeted.

categorical declaration

Suggests a definitive and absolute statement.

FAQs

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

You can use "specific reference" to point to a particular detail, source, or instance. For example, "The report made a "specific reference" to the economic impact of the policy."

What's a good alternative to "specific reference"?

Alternatives include "explicit mention", "direct citation", or "particular instance". The best choice depends on the context.

Is it redundant to say "very specific reference"?

While not grammatically incorrect, "very specific reference" can be redundant. "Specific reference" already implies a high degree of detail. Consider rephrasing for conciseness.

When should I use "specific reference" vs. "general reference"?

"Specific reference" is used when you are pointing to a particular source or detail, while "general reference" implies a broader, less precise source of information.