reference
re
ˈrɛ
re
fe
rence
rəns
rēns
British pronunciation
/ˈrɛfərəns/

Definition & Meaning of "reference"in English

Reference
01

a mention or citation of something, often to provide context or support for an idea

example
Examples
The article included several references to previous studies on the topic.
02

a short note in a book giving information about the source of its subject

example
Examples
At the end of the chapter, the author included a reference to the original research study.
03

a work containing useful information on a particular subject, often consulted for guidance or clarification

What is a "reference"?

A reference is a source of information used to support, verify, or explain something in research, writing, or study. It can be a book, article, website, or any other resource that provides factual details or evidence on a particular topic. References are often cited in academic work to give credit to the original source of the information and to allow others to find the same sources for further study.

example
Examples
Please check the reference for additional information.
04

a point of comparison or a standard used to evaluate or measure something

example
Examples
The GDP growth rate serves as a reference for economic performance.
05

a letter written by a former employer about a former employee who has applied for a new job, giving information about them

example
Examples
She requested a reference from her previous manager to support her job application.
06

the specific thing, object, or concept that a word, phrase, or expression points to

example
Examples
In " the Eiffel Tower, " the reference is the famous Paris landmark.
07

the act of referring to, consulting, or directing attention to a source of information

example
Examples
She made a reference to the dictionary to check the spelling.
08

the relationship in which a word, phrase, or expression points to, denotes, or indicates a specific entity, object, or concept

What is "reference"?

Reference is the act of referring to or indicating something or someone in language, where words or expressions are used to point to or denote specific entities, objects, or concepts. For example, in the sentence, "The cat is on the mat," the word "cat" refers to a specific animal, while "mat" refers to a specific object. Reference can be direct, where the term clearly identifies the entity, or indirect, where it implies or suggests the entity without naming it directly. Understanding reference is essential for interpreting meaning in communication, as it helps clarify what is being discussed and ensures effective understanding between speakers and listeners.

example
Examples
In the sentence " The cat is on the mat, " " cat " and " mat " have clear references.
09

a publication, or a specific passage within a publication, that is cited or referred to

example
Examples
The paper included a reference to a recent journal article.
10

the code, pointer, or address that indicates where a piece of information is stored in memory or storage

example
Examples
In programming, a reference allows a function to access the original variable.
to reference
01

to refer to a source, publication, or piece of information for evidence, support, or clarification

example
Examples
In her essay, she referenced several studies on climate change.
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