we should refer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we should refer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting that someone should look at or consult a specific source or piece of information. Example: "In order to understand the topic better, we should refer to the latest research findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Perhaps we should refer to highly successful innovations not simply as blockbusters but as block-by-blockbusters.

Harvard Business Review

The only debate is about how far this process has gone, and whether we should refer to it as oligarchy or as something else.

The New Yorker

Perhaps we should refer that question to Kenneth Branagh … If you really needed it confirming in 2016, stick this on the TV.

The Guardian - Opinion

We should refer to adoptive status only when it's relevant and the relevance is clear, which was not the case here.

The New York Times

Until the Argentine flag flies over Stanley, we should refer to the islands solely by the name given to them by their present, recently self-determined, inhabitants.

The Economist

It confirmed that from April it will run the contract for physiotherapy in the area so we should refer our patients to it instead, using new referral forms which I have now received.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

If it is ultimately impossible to distinguish Watson and Crick strands using biological properties, then we propose that Watson should refer to the stand arbitrarily used as a reference in a database (i.e. the "plus" stand) and the Crick strand should refer to its complement.

Biology Direct

We propose that it should refer to the (subjective) perception of its significance (regulative weight) for a given purpose.

Behavior Research Methods

I finally ended up saying, "Yes, I think that before we go any further I should refer you to a rheumatologist who can assess your need for this treatment, and then we can talk".

BMC Health Services Research

We recommend that future studies should refer to Whooley in the title or abstract to facilitate future reviews of the measure.

BMJ Open

Subsequent reports should refer to these summaries.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone and context of your writing. In formal settings, more precise alternatives like "we ought to consult" might be preferable over the more casual "we should refer".

Common error

Avoid using "we should refer" excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or pedantic. Opt for simpler phrases like "let's check" or "we can look at" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we should refer" primarily functions as a directive suggestion. As shown in Ludwig, it is used to guide the audience to consult a particular source or idea for further information or clarification. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we should refer" is a grammatically sound and useful construction for suggesting that a specific source be consulted for further information. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While generally neutral to formal, it's more common in News & Media and Science contexts and can be replaced with alternatives like "we ought to consult" or "we need to look at". Remember to ensure the referenced source is clear and accessible and avoid overuse in informal settings to maintain an appropriate tone. Use it to enhance credibility and provide readers with pathways to deeper understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we should consult

Offers a straightforward suggestion to seek advice or information.

we ought to consult

Emphasizes obligation or duty in seeking information from a source.

we need to look at

Suggests a necessity to examine or consider something.

it is advisable to consult

Presents consulting as a recommended course of action.

we may want to examine

Suggests a possibility or desire to investigate something further.

it would be prudent to check

Indicates that checking is a wise or cautious action.

let's consider

Proposes a collective reflection or evaluation of a subject.

we might review

Suggests a potential re-examination or study of something.

let's turn our attention to

Shifts focus to a specific subject or aspect.

we can explore

Implies an investigation or in-depth study of a topic.

FAQs

How can I use "we should refer" in a sentence?

Use "we should refer" to suggest consulting a specific source for information. For example, "To understand this concept better, "we should refer" to the textbook."

What are some alternatives to "we should refer"?

Alternatives include "we ought to consult", "we need to look at", or simply "we should consult" depending on the context.

Is "we should refer to" more formal than "we can look at"?

Yes, "we should refer to" is generally more formal. "We can look at" is a more casual and less directive way to suggest consulting a source.

When is it appropriate to use "we should refer" in academic writing?

It's appropriate in academic writing when directing the reader to specific sources, methodologies, or prior research. For instance, "For a detailed analysis of this phenomenon, "we should refer" to Smith's (2020) study."