1 B1 neutral
To mention or indicate someone or something, either directly or indirectly
"In his speech, the minister referred to the recent economic report several times."
inseparable
refer to
B1 neutral inseparable transitive
To mention or speak about something specifically, or to consult a source of information, or to direct someone elsewhere
In plain English
To talk about something or someone specifically, to look something up, or to send someone to another person for help
What does "refer to" mean?
4 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 neutral
To look at or consult a source of information such as a book, dictionary, or set of notes
"If you're unsure about the rules, refer to the handbook on page twelve."
inseparable
3 B1 neutral
To direct someone to another person or place for information, help, or treatment
"Her GP referred her to a cardiologist for further tests."
inseparable
4 B2 neutral
To describe or apply a name, term, or label to something
"What exactly does the term 'circular economy' refer to?"
inseparable
Usage tip
Very common in academic, professional, and everyday English. Three distinct senses: (1) mentioning/indicating, (2) consulting a text/resource, (3) directing someone to another specialist. Often seen in academic writing: 'As referred to in Section 2...'
Words that pair with "refer to"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
document dictionary specialist notes chapter expert earlier point
How to conjugate "refer to"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
refer to
I/you/we/they
3rd person
refers to
he/she/it
Past simple
refered to
yesterday
Past participle
refered to
have + pp
-ing form
refering to
continuous
Hear "refer to" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "refer to" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "refer to"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
allude to cite consult direct to indicate mention point to
Keep exploring
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