frame of reference

noun phrase

: an arbitrary set of axes with reference to which the position or motion of something is described or physical laws are formulated

: 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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Even in the moment, her questions about his relationship with a cook at his Mount Josiah plantation in Virginia exposes some of Claire’s own biases of understanding the struggles for people outside of her own frame of reference. —

Hunter Ingram, Variety, 7 Dec. 2024 For a frame of reference, a USDA hardiness zone 7 winter can easily see temperatures this cold or colder, without being an exceptional year. —

Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 21 Nov. 2024 For a frame of reference, Jimmy Rollins played nearly a full season in that same Double-A Eastern League at the same age and hit .273-.336-.404 with 11 homers in 598 plate appearances. —

Tony Blengino, Forbes, 17 Oct. 2024 Any other frame of reference would just throw them into malfunction. —

Jeetendr Sehdev, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024 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

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Frame of reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frame%20of%20reference. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

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