straightforward reference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "straightforward reference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a reference that is clear and easy to understand. Example: "The author made a straightforward reference to the previous study, making it easy for readers to follow the argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Is one person's metaphor another's straightforward reference?

The New York Times

In the present paper a simple and straightforward reference load definition is proposed instead of the limit load which strictly corresponds to a ligament yielding parameter Lr = 1 in the R6 Routine and similar approaches such as the European SINTAP and FITNET methods.

Engineering Fracture Mechanics

This and the "black" of the bird's common name are a straightforward reference to its general appearance.

Wikipedia

At first blush, it seems a straightforward reference to those of us who relied on ourselves alone, who didn't whine when we were down, who worked as hard as we needed to work to achieve our goals, as a result achieved them, and thus became self-made men.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The images are numbered to provide for straightforward references below.

Advanced Structural and Chemical Imaging

The methodology is very straightforward: each reference dataset is divided in sub-categories, and altogether the six datasets make a total of 43 sub-categories (34 for the empirical datasets, 9 for the artificial).

Bioinformatics

The text is also supplemented by useful colour boxes, some giving key points that make quick reference straightforward.

British Journal of Cancer

The interpretation of the results obtained is not straightforward, with particular reference to those from the models of episodic selection.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Although the interpretation of model parameters may not be as straightforward because the reference to discrete windows is lost, conclusions about the relative importance of broad time periods can still be drawn.

Environmental Health Perspectives

The 100 authentic recipes are straightforward; each cross-references the kind of noodle it requires.

The New York Times - Food

In this one, the lyrical reference is straightforward: "On the Street Where You Live" is, of course, a high point in the musical "My Fair Lady," written by Lerner and Loewe.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "straightforward reference" when you want to emphasize that a reference is easily understood and leaves little room for ambiguity. It's particularly effective in academic or technical writing where clarity is paramount.

Common error

While appropriate in formal settings, using "straightforward reference" too often in casual conversation or informal writing can sound stilted. Opt for simpler terms like "clear mention" or "direct hint" in less formal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "straightforward reference" functions as a noun phrase, where 'straightforward' modifies 'reference'. It describes the quality of the reference being direct and easily understood. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

25%

Science

66%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "straightforward reference" is grammatically sound and used to describe a reference that is clear and easily understood. Though relatively rare, it finds its place primarily in News & Media and Science contexts. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is perfectly acceptable for use in written English. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "clear reference" or "direct reference" to maintain clarity and precision in your writing. Its formality lends itself well to academic and technical discourse where unambiguous communication is essential.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clear reference

Replaces "straightforward" with "clear", emphasizing the ease of understanding.

direct reference

Substitutes "straightforward" with "direct", focusing on the unambiguous nature of the reference.

explicit reference

Replaces "straightforward" with "explicit", highlighting the overt and unambiguous nature of the reference.

simple reference

Uses "simple" instead of "straightforward" to suggest the reference is uncomplicated.

unambiguous reference

Replaces "straightforward" with "unambiguous", stressing the lack of potential for misinterpretation.

obvious reference

Substitutes "straightforward" with "obvious", implying the reference is easily noticeable.

plain reference

Uses "plain" instead of "straightforward" to emphasize the simplicity and lack of artifice.

unequivocal reference

Replaces "straightforward" with "unequivocal" emphasizing its leaving no doubt.

forthright reference

Substitutes "straightforward" with "forthright", suggesting the reference is direct and honest.

easy reference

Replaces "straightforward" with "easy", highlighting the accessibility of the reference.

FAQs

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

You can use "straightforward reference" to indicate a clear and easily understood citation or allusion. For example, "The author made a "straightforward reference" to the earlier study, reinforcing the argument."

What are some alternatives to "straightforward reference"?

Alternatives include "clear reference", "direct reference", or "explicit reference", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "straightforward reference" appropriate for all types of writing?

While grammatically correct, "straightforward reference" is more suited to formal or academic writing. In informal contexts, consider alternatives like "obvious reference" or "simple reference".

What's the difference between "straightforward reference" and "subtle allusion"?

A "straightforward reference" is direct and easily understood, while a "subtle allusion" is indirect and requires more interpretation from the reader. One is obvious, the other is not.