this refers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this refers" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when clarifying or explaining what a particular term or concept is indicating or pointing to. Example: "In the context of the discussion, this refers to the impact of climate change on global agriculture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(This refers to Frank Prinz).

The New Yorker

This refers to Nagorno-Karabakh (see article).

The Economist

It is unclear what this refers to.

The Guardian - Business

This refers to yeast, not baking powder or baking soda".

The New York Times

"Ask" doesn't capture which power this refers to.

The Guardian

(Presumably this refers to Baghdad and not east London).

The Guardian - Sport

This refers to pure money financing of the deficit.

The Guardian - Business

(This refers to a vote in the 1980s).

The Economist

Note this refers to Genetically Engineered - or GE - plants and crops.

The Guardian

This refers to Andre Gide, France's foremost author who was in Algiers at the time.

The New Yorker

This refers to the narrator's former habit, "years ago" of coming home late for dinner.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this refers", ensure the connection between "this" and its referent is clear to avoid ambiguity. Rephrase if necessary for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "this refers" when the referent is not immediately obvious in the preceding context. It's crucial to provide enough context so the reader understands what "this" is referring to without having to guess.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this refers" functions as an explanatory device, clarifying the meaning of a preceding term, concept, or statement. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts to provide definitions or explanations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

54%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this refers" serves as a crucial tool for clarification in writing and speech. Ludwig AI indicates its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various domains, notably in news, media, and scientific contexts. To ensure clarity, always check that the connection between "this" and its referent is evident. Consider using alternatives like "this indicates" or "this alludes to" depending on the nuance you wish to convey. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "this refers" to enhance understanding and avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this indicates

A more direct and explicit way of pointing out the meaning.

this denotes

Focuses on the definition or explicit meaning of something.

this alludes to

Similar in function, but implies a more indirect or suggestive reference.

this signifies

Emphasizes the symbolic or indicative nature of the reference.

this pertains to

Highlights the relevance or connection to a specific subject.

this is in reference to

A more formal way to state that something is being referred to.

this is indicative of

Suggests that the reference is a sign or symptom of something else.

this is connected to

Highlights a connection between the subject and something else.

this highlights

Implies that the reference brings attention to a particular aspect.

this is representative of

Indicates that the reference is an example or representation of something broader.

FAQs

How can I use "this refers" in a sentence?

Use "this refers" to clarify what a term, concept, or statement is indicating. For example: "The term 'outsourced emissions'. "This refers" to greenhouse gases produced in one nation on behalf of another."

What's a more formal alternative to "this refers"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "this denotes", "this signifies", or "this pertains to". These alternatives provide a similar function but with a slightly more elevated register.

How can I avoid ambiguity when using "this refers"?

Ensure that the subject you are referring to with "this" is clear and immediately identifiable in the preceding sentence or context. If there's any chance of confusion, rephrase to specify the referent directly.

Which is correct, "this refers to" or "this refers at"?

"This refers to" is the correct and standard usage. The preposition "to" is necessary to indicate the direction of the reference. "This refers at" is grammatically incorrect.