for future reference
idiom
: for the purpose of being looked at for information in the future
You should keep these instructions for future reference.
Examples of for future reference in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The premise is simple: such attackers can collect large amounts of today’s encrypted data and file it all away for future reference.
—
David Phelan, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2024
In a kitchen always infused with tempting smells and stocked with her granddaughter’s favorite foods — apple pie, cinnamon bread, oatmeal-raisin cookies — Doris Jean imparted priceless knowledge and techniques that Fry tucked away for future reference.
—Kimberly Winter Stern, Kansas City Star, 25 Jan. 2024
But just for future reference, Mahomes — they’re called unmentionables for a reason.
—Chuck Schilken, Los Angeles Times, 14 Nov. 2023
Also, make a copy of the terms and requirements for future reference.
—Ken Tumin, CBS News, 25 July 2023
See all Example Sentences for for future reference 
David Phelan, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2024
In a kitchen always infused with tempting smells and stocked with her granddaughter’s favorite foods — apple pie, cinnamon bread, oatmeal-raisin cookies — Doris Jean imparted priceless knowledge and techniques that Fry tucked away for future reference.
—Kimberly Winter Stern, Kansas City Star, 25 Jan. 2024
But just for future reference, Mahomes — they’re called unmentionables for a reason.
—Chuck Schilken, Los Angeles Times, 14 Nov. 2023
Also, make a copy of the terms and requirements for future reference.
—Ken Tumin, CBS News, 25 July 2023
See all Example Sentences for for future reference
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'for future reference.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near for future reference
Cite this Entry
“For future reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/for%20future%20reference. Accessed 27 Jul. 2024.
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