terse reference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "terse reference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a brief or concise mention of something, often in a formal or academic context. Example: "The author made a terse reference to the previous study, highlighting only the key findings without elaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The secretary's terse reference to Israel's latest strike against suspected Palestinian terrorists marked the second time in two weeks that the United States felt compelled to criticize Israel, if only obliquely.

The New York Times

[a] is a terse reference to the esoteric mode of presentation.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Some companies say they obtain credit checks to supplement terse references from former employers.

The New York Times

Further, Averroes adds explanations of aspects of Aristotle's text that are especially unclear or terse, and adds references to other works in the Aristotelian corpus to help explain particular texts.

SEP

Allardyce performed a minor miracle to save Sunderland from relegation after succeeding Dick Advocaat last October but the Wearside club, in a terse statement which will interpreted as churlish, failed to reference his contribution, let alone thank him or offer their good wishes.

The Guardian - Sport

Here, the classic reference would be to The Mask of Anarchy, the terse and bitter and furious poem that he composed in Italy after hearing of the suppression of the Peterloo demonstrators in Manchester in August 1819.

The Guardian - Books

Swift, however did not appear to be flattered by the reference, as her publicist sent the New York Times an extremely terse denial that she gave Kanye any blessing to write it.

Los Angeles Times

If it's a long stretch between first and second references to someone — especially if other names have intervened — we should consider a terse reminder: "Ms. Jones, the Democratic strategist" or "Mr. Smith, the Goldman analyst".

The New York Times

Terse, hard-boiled.

The New Yorker

— he grew terse.

The New Yorker

Terse words were exchanged.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "terse reference", ensure the context provides sufficient information for the audience to understand the alluded subject. Avoid ambiguity by offering minimal but clear context.

Common error

Avoid using "terse reference" in situations where the audience is unfamiliar with the subject. An extremely short or abbreviated reference may lead to confusion if not supplemented with adequate background information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "terse reference" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as an object or complement within a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable expression.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "terse reference" denotes a brief and concise mention, functioning as a noun phrase suitable for neutral to professional registers. As Ludwig AI reports, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable, though relatively rare in occurrence. Primarily found in News & Media and Science contexts, it signifies a mention lacking extensive detail. For clarity, ensure sufficient context surrounds the "terse reference" to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "brief mention" or "concise allusion" can offer similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

brief mention

Emphasizes the brevity of the reference.

concise allusion

Highlights the succinct nature of the indirect reference.

succinct citation

Focuses on the brevity and accuracy of the cited source.

abbreviated note

Underlines the shortened form of the reference.

short remark

Highlights the brevity and informality of the reference.

compact indication

Emphasizes the small size or condensed nature of the reference.

pithy statement

Highlights the concise and meaningful nature of the reference.

laconic remark

Emphasizes the brevity and terseness of the reference.

elliptical mention

Focuses on the indirect and concise nature of the reference.

summary reference

Highlights the condensed and summarized nature of the reference.

FAQs

What does "terse reference" mean?

A "terse reference" is a brief and concise mention of something. It implies that the reference is short and to the point, without unnecessary detail.

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

You can use "terse reference" to describe a brief mention or allusion. For example, "The report included a "terse reference" to the ongoing negotiations."

What are some alternatives to "terse reference"?

Some alternatives include "brief mention", "concise allusion", or "succinct citation". These phrases all convey the idea of a short and to-the-point reference.

When is it appropriate to use a "terse reference"?

It is appropriate to use a "terse reference" when the subject being referred to is already known to the audience, or when a detailed explanation is not necessary. Avoid using it if the audience needs more context to understand the reference.