Phrasal verb
refer to sb/sth
Definition
phrasal verb. To mention or talk about someone or something. It can also mean to look at something, like a book or a map, to find information.
phrasal verb. A transitive phrasal verb meaning to mention or allude to someone/something, or to direct attention to a source for information.
Examples
“The book refers to a famous study.”
“If you have any questions, please refer to the user manual provided in the box.”
“In his speech, the senator did not refer to his opponent by name, but the thinly veiled criticisms were understood by everyone.”
Examples
simple
“The book refers to a famous study.”
contextual
“If you have any questions, please refer to the user manual provided in the box.”
complex
“In his speech, the senator did not refer to his opponent by name, but the thinly veiled criticisms were understood by everyone.”
Usage
Often used in formal or academic contexts to cite sources or direct a reader for more information.
Teaching tip
Distinguish the 'mention' sense (He referred to the incident) from the 'consult' sense (Refer to the dictionary) and the 'send to' sense (The GP referred her to a specialist).
Pitfall
He referred the problem.
He referred to the problem.
The preposition 'to' is required after 'refer' to connect it to its object.
Phrasal verb
Particles
to
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
refer + to + object