we refer to

USAGE SUMMARY

"we refer to" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to introduce something that has been mentioned previously in the conversation or another source. For example, "We have discussed the implications of global warming in previous chapters. Here, we refer to those implications and how they may impact our daily lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We refer to these subsets as references.

Algorithms for Molecular Biology

We refer to "pharmacy".

The New Yorker

"We refer to 'silent failers,' " said Spriggs.

The New York Times

We refer to this as 'personal knowledge'.

International Journal of Human-Computer Studies

We refer to them as smart traders.

Accounting, Organizations and Society

We refer to these links as "Microbridges".

Microelectronic Engineering

We refer to these as regional traits.

Nature

We refer to them as Mobilizers.

Harvard Business Review

We refer to them as rituals.

Harvard Business Review

We refer to this data as 'directional'directional

Nature

We refer to these as "clip artifact".

Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we refer to", ensure the reference is clear and unambiguous. The reader should easily understand what you are referencing without needing additional context.

Common error

Avoid using "we refer to" when the subject you're referencing is vague or hasn't been clearly established. This can lead to confusion and require readers to guess your meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we refer to" serves as an introductory phrase used to direct the reader's attention to a specific item, concept, or term. It functions as a signpost, clarifying what the speaker or writer is referencing within the context of the discussion. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

78%

News & Media

15%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we refer to" is a grammatically sound and versatile tool for enhancing clarity in writing and speech. It serves as a reliable method for directing your audience's focus to a specific element, be it a previously mentioned idea or a concept that warrants further exploration. As Ludwig AI confirms, its widespread usability is reflected across various domains, most notably in science, news media, and academic research. To ensure effective communication, maintain clarity in your references and select the most appropriate tone. Explore related options to refine your writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we term this

This is a concise way of introducing a specific term for a concept, often used in academic or technical contexts.

we allude to

This alternative suggests a more indirect reference, implying a subtle mention rather than a direct naming.

we denote as

This alternative implies a more formal or symbolic way of representing something with a specific term.

we label as

This alternative emphasizes the act of assigning a specific label or identifier to the subject.

we designate as

This alternative emphasizes the act of assigning a specific name or label to something.

we identify as

This alternative focuses on recognizing or categorizing something under a particular term.

we define as

This suggests a formal definition or explanation is being provided for the subject.

we characterize as

This option emphasizes describing the qualities or features of the subject.

we classify as

This implies placing the subject into a specific category or group based on shared characteristics.

we consider this

This alternative presents the subject as something to be taken into account or viewed in a particular way.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "we refer to"?

You can use alternatives like "we allude to", "we designate as", or "we term this" depending on the context.

Is "we refer to" formal or informal?

The phrase "we refer to" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives might be preferable in academic or professional writing.

How to use "we refer to" in a sentence?

Use "we refer to" to introduce a term, concept, or item that you will be discussing further or has been previously mentioned. For example, "We discussed the algorithm in Section 2; here, we refer to it as Algorithm X."

What's the difference between "we refer to" and "we are referring to"?

"We refer to" is a simple present tense, stating a general practice or intention. "We are referring to" is present continuous, indicating an action happening at the moment of speaking or writing. Both are correct but have slightly different nuances.