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
Meaningful international travel opens minds, widens frames of reference, and counteracts xenophobia and jingoistic nationalism, which thrive on lack of exposure to the world beyond.
—
Dinyar Patel, Foreign Affairs, 29 Mar. 2021
While there are no living analogues for Pikaia, the fossil arthropod data gave the scientists a more detailed frame of reference for Pikaia’s nerve cord.
—Mindy Weisberger, CNN, 24 June 2024
Bronny is a good player, perhaps even a great one, depending on your frame of reference.
—Louisa Thomas, The New Yorker, 23 June 2024
Her stats, such as 24 points and 11.5 rebounds per game in the FIBA under-18 African Championship, or 21.5 points per game in the under-18 World Cup, are impressive, but with no real frame of reference as games are not readily available.
—Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 14 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for frame of reference 
Dinyar Patel, Foreign Affairs, 29 Mar. 2021
While there are no living analogues for Pikaia, the fossil arthropod data gave the scientists a more detailed frame of reference for Pikaia’s nerve cord.
—Mindy Weisberger, CNN, 24 June 2024
Bronny is a good player, perhaps even a great one, depending on your frame of reference.
—Louisa Thomas, The New Yorker, 23 June 2024
Her stats, such as 24 points and 11.5 rebounds per game in the FIBA under-18 African Championship, or 21.5 points per game in the under-18 World Cup, are impressive, but with no real frame of reference as games are not readily available.
—Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 14 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for frame of reference
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'frame of 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 frame of reference
Cite this Entry
“Frame of reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frame%20of%20reference. Accessed 26 Jul. 2024.
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