frame of reference

noun phrase

1
: an arbitrary set of axes with reference to which the position or motion of something is described or physical laws are formulated
2
: a set of ideas, conditions, or assumptions that determine how something will be approached, perceived, or understood
a Marxian frame of reference

Examples of frame of reference in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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These are six major points in that frame of reference: (1) Inevitability of AGI/ASI: Just as manifest destiny framed westward expansion, the same applies to AGI and ASI, including that such a pursuit is unstoppable. Lance Eliot, Forbes, 20 Mar. 2025 The baby creepers, on the other hand, had a particularly delightful frame of reference that will be familiar to pet parents. Jessica Wang, EW.com, 6 Mar. 2025 In short: who benefits depends on your frame of reference. Greg Iacurci, CNBC, 3 Mar. 2025 In more than 20 years of living in the United States, few things still remain as far outside my cultural frame of reference as SNL. Eric Berger, Ars Technica, 14 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for frame of reference

Word History

First Known Use

1895, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of frame of reference was in 1895

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Cite this Entry

“Frame of reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frame%20of%20reference. Accessed 12 Apr. 2025.

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