Cool MateReference
UK /["/ˈrefrəns/"]/US /["/ˈrefrəns/"]/
Definition
a thing you say or write that mentions somebody/something else; the act of mentioning somebody/something
In simple words: A mention or source of information.
Examples
- The teacher provided a reference book to help us with our project.
- She mentioned a reference in her speech to support her argument.
- You can find great resources for writing references in academic papers.
- Make sure to include a reference for any quotes you use in your essay.
- It's important to clarify the reference to the historical event mentioned.
Usage notes
Used in both spoken and written contexts. Appropriate in academic, professional, and casual discussions. Avoid in informal settings when referring to people outside of a specific context.
Grammar pattern
reference + object
Memory hint
Remember 'reference' like 'referring' — it’s all about pointing to information.
Collocations
- extensive
- brief
- casual
- contain
- have
- include
- in a/the reference
- in reference to
- with reference to
- general
- comprehensive
- essential
- book
- guide
- manual
- copious
- full
- appropriate
- quote
- cite
- give
- number
- in a/the reference
- reference to
- a list of references
- easy
- quick
- further
- by reference to
- for reference
- without reference to
- for somebody’s own reference
- for somebody’s personal reference
- for reference purposes
- glowing
- good
- bad
- ask for
- need
- give (somebody)
- reference from
- a letter of reference
- act as
- be
- contact
- reference for
- copious
- full
- appropriate
- quote
- cite
- give
- number
- in a/the reference
- reference to
- a list of references
Synonyms
- citation
- mention
- source
- allusion
- indicator
Antonyms
- disregard
- neglect
Common mistakes
- 'Reference' misunderstood as only meaning footnotes rather than general information source.
- 'Referencing' used incorrectly as a noun instead of a verb.
- Confused with 'refer' without understanding the difference.