reference

in reference to (someone or something)

Regarding someone or something; in connection with someone or something. We received an anonymous tip in reference to the ongoing investigation. In reference to my opponent's remarks, let me state for the record that I have always condemned hate speech in all forms. I wanted to speak with you in reference to the new accountant you hired.

See also: reference, to

point of reference

Something that aids one in understanding some topic, situation, thing, etc. A: "This job may be dull, but I honestly love it." B: "As a point of reference, though, didn't you used to work 80-hour weeks at your old job?" A: "Yeah, that's definitely a major contributing factor!" Smith is having a great year offensively. As a point of reference, only six other players in the league have more points than him.

See also: of, point, reference

terms of reference

The instructions that outline and clarify the purpose and scope of some undertaking, usually of a collaborative nature. A: "The board won't approve our investigative committee without clear terms of reference." B: "Naturally. I'm sure they want to limit what we can look into."

See also: of, reference, term

with reference to (someone or something)

Regarding or having to do with someone or something; in connection with someone or something. We received an anonymous tip with reference to the ongoing investigation. With reference to my opponent's remarks, let me state for the record that I have always condemned hate speech in all forms. I wanted to speak to you with reference to the new accountant you hired.

See also: reference, to

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

in reference to someone or something

 and with reference to someone or something concerning or about someone or something;

in connection with someone or something. What shall we do in reference to Bill and his problem? With reference to what problem?

See also: reference, to

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

in regard to

Also, as regards; in or with reference to ; with regard to; in or with respect to . Concerning, about. For example, In regard to your letter, forget it, or As regards your subscription, I'm not sure why it was canceled, or In reference to your inquiry, we'll have to pass it on to the board, or We have a few questions with regard to your recent offer, or With respect to your latest request, we'll be happy to oblige. The word reference has been used in this idiom since the late 1500s, regard from the second half of the 1400s, and respect from the first half of the 1500s. Also see relative to.

See also: regard, to

with reference to

Also, with regard or respect to . See in regard to.

See also: reference, to

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

in/with ˈreference to

(formal or written) used to say what you are talking or writing about: With reference to your letter of July 22...

See also: reference, to

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017