strong reference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "strong reference" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in programming and computer science to describe a reference that prevents the referenced object from being garbage collected. Example: "In this programming language, a strong reference to an object ensures that it remains in memory until there are no more strong references to it."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Designed by Vicki Mortimer with strong reference to the harem paintings of two English orientalists, John Frederick Lewis and David Roberts, the ochre colours and rich detail of costumes and interiors look handsome.

The Guardian - Music

But he had an unusual degree of confidence, and, after securing a strong reference from an English grammar school that he'd attended for a year, he persuaded an Oxford admissions officer to let him in.

The New Yorker

With this strong reference towards these principles emerging in the coalition government's policies it is worth re-examining the original vision; garden cities combine the very best of town and country living to create healthy homes for working people in vibrant communities.

The Guardian

In December 1989, William Ramirez, then Chief of the Main Library, wrote a memo objecting to the foreseen change "from a strong reference, research resource and service center to an undistinguished 'popular library.'" Many of Dowlin's employees have resisted the change, protecting books by hiding or falsely stamping them.

The New Yorker

No VC will give you too much importance if you don't come with a strong reference.

TechCrunch

Moreover, in this research community it was possible to observe a strong reference to Boyer's model (Boyer, 1990) on the academic profession.

International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

He had received a "very strong" character reference from Mr Shafiq, who became mayor in June.

BBC

He had received a "very strong" character reference from Liberal Democrat Mr Shafiq, who became mayor in June.

BBC

(He described it as an "old furnace revisited and enriched with exquisite finishes, with strong references to tradition").

The New York Times

The thin, vertical, Etruscan idol-like figures developed by Giacometti showed his repugnance toward rounded and smooth body surfaces or strong references to the flesh.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Customer also buy social proof because others are acting as strong references.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When requesting a recommendation, ensure you provide your referee with ample context about the role or opportunity you're pursuing. This enables them to craft a more targeted and impactful "strong reference".

Common error

Avoid vague commendations that lack specific examples. A "strong reference" should highlight concrete achievements and skills, demonstrating the candidate's capabilities through detailed anecdotes and quantifiable results.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strong reference" functions as a noun phrase, where "strong" modifies the noun "reference". It indicates a notable or significant connection, influence, or support. Ludwig provides examples illustrating its use in various contexts, such as academic research, employment, and artistic expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "strong reference" is a phrase used across various domains to denote a significant connection, reliable source, or compelling recommendation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used. Its frequency is categorized as common, predominantly appearing in scientific and news media contexts. When seeking alternatives, consider phrases like "compelling citation" or "significant indication", depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Remember that a "strong reference" emphasizes the quality and impact of the reference being made.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compelling citation

Replaces "reference" with "citation" and "strong" with "compelling", emphasizing the influence of the reference.

significant indication

Substitutes "reference" with "indication" and "strong" with "significant", highlighting the importance of the sign.

substantial attribution

Changes "reference" to "attribution" and "strong" to "substantial", focusing on the act of crediting a source.

marked allusion

Replaces "reference" with "allusion" and "strong" with "marked", underscoring a clear and noticeable indirect mention.

powerful endorsement

Changes "reference" to "endorsement" and "strong" to "powerful", emphasizing a strong support.

solid pointer

Substitutes "reference" with "pointer" and "strong" with "solid", emphasizing that it is a solid concept.

clear connection

Replaces "reference" with "connection" and "strong" with "clear", indicating an unambiguous link.

firm testimony

Changes "reference" to "testimony" and "strong" to "firm", indicating solid support.

unmistakable link

Substitutes "reference" with "link" and "strong" with "unmistakable", emphasizing a clear and definite connection.

pronounced correlation

Replaces "reference" with "correlation" and "strong" with "pronounced", emphasizing the significance of the relation.

FAQs

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

You can use "strong reference" to describe something that is clearly related to or influenced by something else, such as "The design of the building has a "strong reference" to classical architecture" or to describe a recommendation letter or a person who can give a recommendation, such as "He got the job because he had a "strong reference" from his former boss".

What's a good alternative to "strong reference" when talking about a recommendation?

Alternatives to "strong reference" in the context of recommendations include "glowing recommendation", "excellent character reference", or "highly regarded recommendation".

Is it better to have a "strong reference" or a "good reference"?

A "strong reference" is generally more desirable than a "good reference". A "strong reference" indicates a high level of confidence and support, whereas a "good reference" might simply be adequate or satisfactory.

Can "strong reference" be used in contexts other than recommendations?

Yes, "strong reference" can also be used to describe clear influences or allusions in art, literature, or design. For example, "The film makes a "strong reference" to classic science fiction movies".