thorough reference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "thorough reference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a detailed or comprehensive source of information on a particular subject. Example: "For a thorough reference on climate change, I recommend reading the latest IPCC report."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The most thorough reference book for potential passengers is the annual Berlitz Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships, which reviews nearly every ocean-going ship in the world.

Independent

BRYAN TRABOLD Boston, Dec. 19, 2012 To the Editor: New York City requires applicants for a gun permit to have an in-person interview by a police officer, a thorough reference check and a written application in addition to the standard federal background checks.

The New York Times

The chemfig package's accompanying documentation is clearly written and thorough; reference [12] gives a brief but useful introduction.

Journal of Cheminformatics

C. Conduct thorough reference checking.

Huffington Post

So we steeped ourselves in weddings, and in gay and lesbian variations, and "The Essential Guide" is, we feel, still the most thorough reference on the market.

Huffington Post

However, the ability to reliably identify an immature life stage through a DNA sequence is dependent on a thorough reference library of DNA barcodes.

BMC Ecology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Experts recommend that buyers conduct thorough credit and reference checks on potential tenants and ask for security deposits.

The New York Times

Therefore, a thorough anatomical reference for the analysis and interpretation of connectome data is indispensable to understand the structure and function of different regions of the cortex, the white matter fibre architecture connecting them, and the interplay between these different entities.

NeuroImage

Anderson describes the book in more depth in a footnote, calling it a complete and thorough academic reference book.

Wikipedia

World Book features thorough cross-references, and lists of related articles are included at the end of entries on major subjects.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This review serves to provide practical IC designers with a thorough and heady reference in dealing with complex ESD protection design for integrated circuits.

Microelectronics Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking information, prioritize sources described as a "thorough reference" to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on superficial summaries when a "thorough reference" is available. A deeper dive ensures you grasp nuances and avoid misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thorough reference" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "thorough" modifies the noun "reference". It signifies a source of information that is comprehensive and detailed. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "thorough reference" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a comprehensive and detailed source of information. As Ludwig AI states, it's usable in written English. It finds application across varied contexts, particularly in science, news, and formal documentation. When writing, prioritize sources that present themselves as a "thorough reference" to ensure that you are not missing out on crucial details. Alternatives, such as "comprehensive guide" or "detailed resource", can add variety to your writing. However, always choose the phrase that best reflects the depth and breadth of the information source.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

comprehensive analysis

Focuses on analyzing and breaking something down into parts to explain/understand.

comprehensive guide

Replaces "reference" with "guide", focusing on the instructional aspect. Similar in conveying completeness.

detailed resource

Substitutes "thorough" and "reference" with synonyms, maintaining the emphasis on depth and helpfulness.

extensive documentation

Focuses on written materials, implying a complete and detailed set of documents.

in-depth analysis

Shifts the focus to analytical work, indicating a detailed and comprehensive examination.

exhaustive study

Emphasizes the completeness and comprehensiveness of a research endeavor.

complete overview

Highlights the broad and comprehensive nature of the summary.

full account

Suggests a detailed and comprehensive narration or description.

rigorous examination

Focuses on the careful and detailed nature of the inspection or investigation.

meticulous investigation

Highlights the detailed and precise nature of the inquiry.

FAQs

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

You can use "thorough reference" to describe a resource that provides detailed and comprehensive information on a particular topic. For instance, "The book serves as a thorough reference for understanding the history of art".

What are some alternatives to "thorough reference"?

Alternatives include "comprehensive guide", "detailed resource", or "exhaustive study", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "comprehensive reference" or "thorough reference"?

Both "comprehensive reference" and "thorough reference" are valid and convey a similar meaning. "Thorough" emphasizes detail and completeness, while "comprehensive" emphasizes broad coverage.

How does a "thorough reference" differ from a general overview?

A "thorough reference" provides in-depth information and analysis, while a general overview offers a summary of the main points. A thorough reference is more suitable when detailed understanding is required.