reference (B1)

noun, verb

Pronunciation: /ˈrɛfərəns/

Definition

A mention of something or someone, or the act of mentioning them.

Examples

• The book contains numerous references to historical events.

• She gave me the names of three people as a reference for my job application.

• His speech was full of references to his own achievements.

How to Use reference

in reference to (prepositional phrase)

Concerning or about a particular subject. — "I am writing in reference to your advertisement in yesterday's newspaper."

with reference to (prepositional phrase)

Concerning or about a particular subject. — "With reference to our conversation last week, I have attached the documents."

reference book (collocation)

A book containing facts and information, used for reference. — "The library has a large collection of reference books."

make reference to (collocation)

To mention or allude to something. — "The speaker made frequent reference to his past experiences."

Browse the full Anaversity dictionary