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Prepositions with reference

Of reference or in reference?

In reference to is a formal phrase meaning concerning. Of reference usually appears after another noun.

Quick answer

Correct usage

Use in reference to when introducing a topic or subject. Of reference is not usually a complete expression by itself, but it appears in phrases like point of reference or source of reference.

I am writing in reference to your recent email.
The map served as a point of reference for visitors.

Choose the pattern by meaning

These forms are not interchangeable. Choose the construction by meaning, not by which preposition appears most often.

1
in reference to + topic

Referring to a subject

Use this formal phrase in business and academic English.

She spoke in reference to the new policy.
2
of reference

Part of a larger noun phrase

Use of reference after nouns such as point, frame, or source.

The chart provides a frame of reference for comparison.
3
reference to + topic

Mentioning something

Reference to is more common than in reference to in many contexts.

His speech included a reference to climate change.

See the difference in context

The same subject can take different constructions because each sentence answers a different question.

Construction
Example
Meaning
in reference to
I am calling in reference to your order.
concerning or regarding
of reference
This guide is a point of reference for students.
part of a noun phrase
reference to
There was no reference to costs.
mentioning something

Common mistakes

Some combinations appear in real text but do not mean what learners often assume.

Using in reference without to

The phrase normally includes to and a following topic.

✕ I wrote in reference your request. ✓ I wrote in reference to your request.

Using of reference alone

Of reference usually needs another noun before it.

✕ The report was of reference. ✓ The report served as a point of reference.

Quick practice

Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.

1. I am contacting you ___ reference to the invoice.
2. The manual became a point ___ reference for trainees.
3. Her article made no reference ___ the dispute.

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Frequently asked questions

Is in reference to formal?

Yes. It is common in business letters and formal communication.

Can I say of reference by itself?

Usually no. It normally follows another noun such as point or frame.

What is a simpler alternative to in reference to?

Regarding or about are often simpler and more natural in everyday English.

of, about, against, to or for racism? of, about, for, in or on friendship? of, about, for, on or to thing? of, about, for, to or with sex? of, about, on, to or for moon? "of access" or "with access"? "of accommodation" or "for accommodation"? "of accuracy" or "for accuracy"? "of action" or "in action"? "of actor", "with actor" or "by actor"? "of address" or "to address"? "of administration" or "in administration"?

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