Reference: meaning, definitions and examples

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reference

 

[ ˈrɛf(ə)rəns ]

Context #1 | Noun

in academic work

A mention or citation of a source of information in a book or article.

Synonyms

citation, credit, source

Examples of usage

  • Each table includes a list of references at the end of the chapter.
  • Make sure to provide references for all the data you use in your research paper.
Context #2 | Noun

in job applications

A person who agrees to act as a referee for someone seeking employment.

Synonyms

contact, recommendation, referee

Examples of usage

  • I have listed my former boss as a reference on my job application.
  • The hiring manager called my references to learn more about my work ethic.
Context #3 | Verb

in academic work

To provide a mention or citation of a source of information in a book or article.

Synonyms

cite, credit, mention

Examples of usage

  • Remember to reference all the sources you used in your thesis.
  • It is important to properly reference your sources to avoid plagiarism.

Translations

Translations of the word "reference" in other languages:

🇵🇹 referência

🇮🇳 संदर्भ

🇩🇪 Referenz

🇮🇩 referensi

🇺🇦 посилання

🇵🇱 referencja

🇯🇵 参照 (さんしょう)

🇫🇷 référence

🇪🇸 referencia

🇹🇷 referans

🇰🇷 참조 (chamjo)

🇸🇦 مرجع

🇨🇿 reference

🇸🇰 referencia

🇨🇳 参考 (cānkǎo)

🇸🇮 referenca

🇮🇸 tilvísun

🇰🇿 сілтеме

🇬🇪 მითითება

🇦🇿 istinad

🇲🇽 referencia

Etymology

The word 'reference' originated from the Latin word 'referre', which means 'to carry back'. In English, the term evolved to signify mentioning or citing a source of information. References play a crucial role in academic work and job applications, providing credibility and validation to the information presented. The concept of referencing has been integral to scholarly pursuits for centuries, ensuring proper acknowledgment of the sources that contribute to knowledge and research.

See also: refer, referee, referencer, referendum, referent, referrer.

Word Frequency Rank

At #654 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.