point of reference
noun phrase
: something that is used to judge or understand something else
The professor used the study as a point of reference for evaluating and discussing other theories.
Examples of point of reference in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
When the first scene of a movie involves a literal disembowelment, complete with visible intestines, Stand by Me is an unlikely point of reference.
—
Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 21 Feb. 2025
Because of Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver’s background in Baltimore’s system, Hamilton is a good point of reference.
—Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 17 Feb. 2025
The concept of sea level as an average is only one step in the long-term pursuit of a point of reference in a space that is never at rest, Hardenberg writes.
—Bruce Dorminey, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025
For point of reference, the independent board members of General Electric were paid $275,000 last year.
—Mark Rogers, Boston Herald, 17 Aug. 2024
Williams was his point of reference during Showman.
—Brian Davids, The Hollywood Reporter, 3 Jan. 2025
Please remember that the sheriff’s office social media platforms should be your point of reference for legitimate and accurate information on the case.
—Alexis Simmerman, Austin American-Statesman, 17 July 2024
That’s more than some bottles of Pappy, for point of reference.
—Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 17 Dec. 2024
The bookish uniforms at Tiny Desk might toss a bone to listeners pining for the spirit of The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, but candidly raunchy Trina raps are just as much a point of reference.
—Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 10 Dec. 2024
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Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 21 Feb. 2025
Because of Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver’s background in Baltimore’s system, Hamilton is a good point of reference.
—Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 17 Feb. 2025
The concept of sea level as an average is only one step in the long-term pursuit of a point of reference in a space that is never at rest, Hardenberg writes.
—Bruce Dorminey, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025
For point of reference, the independent board members of General Electric were paid $275,000 last year.
—Mark Rogers, Boston Herald, 17 Aug. 2024
Williams was his point of reference during Showman.
—Brian Davids, The Hollywood Reporter, 3 Jan. 2025
Please remember that the sheriff’s office social media platforms should be your point of reference for legitimate and accurate information on the case.
—Alexis Simmerman, Austin American-Statesman, 17 July 2024
That’s more than some bottles of Pappy, for point of reference.
—Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 17 Dec. 2024
The bookish uniforms at Tiny Desk might toss a bone to listeners pining for the spirit of The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, but candidly raunchy Trina raps are just as much a point of reference.
—Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 10 Dec. 2024
Cite this Entry
“Point of reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/point%20of%20reference. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.
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