📒 a thing you say or write that mentions somebody/something else; the act of mentioning somebody/something
- reference to somebody/something She made no reference to her illness but only to her future plans.
- the President’s passing reference to (= brief mention of) the end of the war
- Her book contains many biblical references.
📒 the act of looking at something for information
- for reference A copy of the booklet is given to the employee for reference.
- Keep the list of numbers near the phone for easy reference.
- I wrote down the name of the hotel for future reference (= because it might be useful in the future).
📒 a number, word or symbol that shows where something is on a map, or where you can find a piece of information
- The map reference is Y4.
- It is essential that an accurate grid reference is given.
- Please quote your reference number when making an enquiry.
📒 the act of asking somebody for help or advice
- The emergency nurse can treat minor injuries without reference to a doctor.
- The decision was made without reference to local managers.
📒 a letter written by somebody who knows you, giving information about your character and abilities, especially to a new employer
- I'm sure she'll give you a good reference.
- We will take up references (= contact the people who provided them) after the interview.
- We'll need a reference from your current employer.
📒 a person who agrees to write a reference, for you, for example when you are applying for a job
- My previous boss will act as a reference for me.
- His former employer agreed to act as a reference for him.
📒 a note in a book that tells you where a particular piece of information comes from
- There is a list of references at the end of each chapter.
- For references, see Section D above.
- reference to something References to previous research are listed in an appendix.
📒 used to say what you are talking or writing about
- With reference to your letter of July 22…
- I am writing with reference to your job application.