Ref: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿ“
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ref

 

[ rษ›f ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

information reference

In academic writing, a 'ref' is an abbreviation for 'reference'. It is commonly used to denote a source of information that has been cited or quoted within a text. References are crucial in providing evidence and supporting the arguments made by the author. They help readers locate the original source material for further exploration and verification of claims. The format and style of a reference can depend on the citation style being used, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago.

Synonyms

bibliography, citation, source

Examples of usage

  • Make sure to include a ref for the data you used.
  • Citing a ref strengthens your argument.
  • Each assertion needs an appropriate ref.
Context #2 | Noun

sports official

In sports, 'ref' is an informal term for a referee. This person is responsible for enforcing the rules and ensuring fair play during a game or match. Referees make critical decisions regarding fouls, penalties, and points, impacting the outcome of the sport. Their authority is essential for maintaining order and discipline on the field or court. Good referees are respected for their judgment and ability to remain impartial.

Synonyms

judge, official, umpire

Examples of usage

  • The ref made a controversial call.
  • Players often argue with the ref's decisions.
  • The ref blew the whistle to start the game.

Translations

Translations of the word "ref" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น referรชncia

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคธเค‚เคฆเคฐเฅเคญ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Referenz

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ referensi

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะฟะพัะธะปะฐะฝะฝั

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ odniesienie

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ๅ‚็…ง

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท rรฉfรฉrence

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ referencia

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท referans

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์ฐธ์กฐ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ู…ุฑุฌุน

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ odkaz

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ odkaz

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๅ‚่€ƒ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ referenca

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ vรญsun

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ัั–ะปั‚ะตะผะต

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒกแƒ”แƒกแƒฎแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ istinad

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ referencia

Etymology

The term 'ref' originates as a shortening of the word 'reference'. The use of 'ref' in the context of information and citations can be traced back to the evolution of academic writing styles and the importance placed on sourcing material during the 20th century. Academic standards grew more rigorous over time, necessitating concise ways to refer to sources. The popular usage of 'ref' in sports as an abbreviation of 'referee' also developed in parallel with the increasing formalization of sports rules and the need for officials to adjudicate fairly in competitive settings. The slang nature of 'ref' reflects broader trends in language simplification, often seen in informal communication where brevity is preferred. Thus, the term has dual applications in modern English, covering both academic references and sports officiating.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,498 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.