with reference to the

USAGE SUMMARY

"with reference to the" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to introduce something that has already been mentioned or is already known. For example, "With reference to the meeting this afternoon, I think we should discuss our plans for the new project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

With reference to the paper (N.

Mathematical and Computer Modelling

With reference to the article "You Don't Surf?

The New York Times

With reference to the licence conditons, some were standard.

The Guardian

Follow-up was monitored with reference to the study diary.

Nature

Discuss, with reference to the three iconic war photographs below.

University of California, Berkeley

Eagleman goes on to explore some of them, particularly with reference to the criminal justice system.

The Guardian

12.18pm: Q: What is the commitment to creativity in the UK (with reference to the arts)?

The Guardian

The word "surrealist" crops up a lot with reference to the great Japanese photographer Shōji Ueda.

The Guardian - Arts

His column in Hearst papers continuously filled with reference to the unimportance of events, etc.

The New Yorker

How to read with writerly sensitivity, with reference to the masters.

The New York Times

Such a generalization, though, is subject to a slight qualification with reference to the religious missions.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "with reference to the" to clearly signal that you are drawing upon previously mentioned information or a specific source to support your current statement. This ensures clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "with reference to the" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "regarding" or "about" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with reference to the" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a connection or relationship to a specific topic, document, or prior statement. It signals that the subsequent information relates to something already established or known. Ludwig confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

30%

Academia

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "with reference to the" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to establish a connection to a previously mentioned topic or source. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for formal contexts like academic writing, scientific reports, and news articles. While it is generally considered formal, it appears in many categories. When writing, ensure the context warrants such a formal tone, and consider simpler alternatives like "regarding" or "concerning" for more casual settings. Remember to use it to enhance clarity and avoid overuse in informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in relation to the

This alternative maintains a similar level of formality and directly indicates a connection or link.

regarding the

A more concise option, suitable for many contexts where "with reference to the" is used, but slightly less formal.

concerning the

This phrase is similar to 'regarding the' but can imply a sense of importance or relevance.

pertaining to the

A more formal alternative, often used in legal or official contexts.

in connection with the

This suggests a direct link or association with the specified subject.

with respect to the

Another formal option, indicating consideration of a particular aspect.

relative to the

This alternative highlights a comparative relationship or perspective.

in terms of the

Focuses on specific aspects or conditions of the subject being discussed.

as regards the

A slightly archaic alternative, equivalent to 'regarding the'.

vis-à-vis the

This phrase is more often used to indicate a comparison or relationship between two distinct entities.

FAQs

How can I use "with reference to the" in a sentence?

Use "with reference to the" to introduce a topic or subject that has already been mentioned or is understood in the context. For example, "With reference to the budget proposal, we need to consider the long-term financial implications."

What are some alternatives to "with reference to the"?

Alternatives include "regarding the", "concerning the", or "in relation to the", depending on the level of formality required.

Is "with reference to the" formal or informal?

"With reference to the" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for academic, professional, or official contexts. Simpler alternatives are preferable for informal settings.

What is the difference between "with reference to the" and "in regards to the"?

While both phrases indicate a connection, "with reference to the" is the correct and more widely accepted form. "In regards to the" is often considered grammatically incorrect; using "regarding the" is a better option.