"reference to" vs "reference of"

Question

"reference to" vs "reference of"

Both 'reference of' and 'reference to' are commonly used phrases in English, but they are used in different contexts. 'Reference to' is the correct phrase when mentioning something in relation to another thing, while 'reference of' is used when indicating the source or origin of something.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

Use 'reference to' when you want to mention something in relation to another thing. It is often used to point to specific topics, ideas, or sources.

Examples:

The article makes a reference to the latest research findings.
In his speech, he made a reference to the importance of education.
The book contains several references to historical events.
She made a reference to the company's future plans.
The movie includes a reference to a famous novel.

Alternatives:

mention of
allusion to
citation to
point to
bring up

Use 'reference of' when you want to indicate the source or origin of something. It is often used in academic writing or formal contexts.

Examples:

The book contains a reference of the author's previous work.
The article provides a reference of the study conducted in 2019.
She made a reference of the historical event during her speech.
The painting is a reference of the artist's childhood memories.
The documentary includes a reference of the scientist's groundbreaking research.

Alternatives:

source of
origin of
mention of
allusion to
citation of

Answer 1

reference to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when mentioning something in relation to another thing.

Answer 2

reference of

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when indicating the source or origin of something.

"reference to" vs "reference of"

reference to

reference of

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