refer to
To talk about something or someone specifically, to look something up, or to send someone to another person for help
Meanings
To mention or indicate someone or something, either directly or indirectly
"In his speech, the minister referred to the recent economic report several times."
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."
To direct someone to another person or place for information, help, or treatment
"Her GP referred her to a cardiologist for further tests."
To describe or apply a name, term, or label to something
"What exactly does the term 'circular economy' refer to?"
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...'
Commonly used with
Forms
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Synonyms
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