B2noun3K

UK/["/ˌrefəˈriː/"]/US/["/ˌrefəˈriː/"]/

Meaning of Referee

the official who controls the game in some sports

In simple words: A person who makes sure the rules are followed in a game or sport.

Referee in a sentence

  • The referee blew the whistle to signal the end of the match.
  • The referee made a controversial decision that upset the fans.
  • In boxing, the referee is responsible for ensuring the fighters follow the rules.
  • During the basketball game, the referee stopped the play to call a foul.
  • She works as a referee for local soccer matches on weekends.
  • The referee checked the players' equipment before the game started.

How to use Referee

Use 'referee' in contexts related to sports and games. It is appropriate in both casual and formal discussions about competitions. Avoid using it in non-sporting contexts.

Grammar pattern

referee + object (e.g., a game, a match)

Memory hint

Think of 'referee' as 'ref-er-ee' — the person who refers to the rules!

Related words

Collocations with Referee

  • basketball
  • boxing
  • football
  • award somebody something
  • blow his/​her/​the whistle
  • stop something
  • the referee’s decision
  • academic
  • act as
  • be
  • referee for

Synonyms for Referee

Opposites of Referee

Common mistakes with Referee

  • Confused with 'umpire', which is specific to some sports like baseball.
  • Using 'referee' in a non-sporting context, where 'judge' might be more suitable.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'refree', omitting the second syllable.

Compare Referee with Official, Judge, Umpire

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Frequently asked questions about Referee

What does Referee mean?

A person who makes sure the rules are followed in a game or sport.

What is the definition of Referee?

the official who controls the game in some sports

How do you use Referee in a sentence?

The referee blew the whistle to signal the end of the match.

Can you give another example of Referee?

The referee made a controversial decision that upset the fans.

What are synonyms for Referee?

Common alternatives include official, judge, umpire, match official, game supervisor.

What is the opposite of Referee?

Opposite meanings include player, participant.

What words go with Referee?

It commonly pairs with basketball, boxing, football, award somebody something, blow his/​her/​the whistle, stop something, the referee’s decision, academic, act as, be, referee for.

What are common mistakes when using Referee?

Confused with 'umpire', which is specific to some sports like baseball. Using 'referee' in a non-sporting context, where 'judge' might be more suitable. Mispronouncing it as 'refree', omitting the second syllable.

How do you pronounce Referee?

US: /["/ˌrefəˈriː/"]/, UK: /["/ˌrefəˈriː/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Referee?

Use 'referee' in contexts related to sports and games. It is appropriate in both casual and formal discussions about competitions. Avoid using it in non-sporting contexts.

What CEFR level is Referee?

"Referee" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.