reference point
noun
: something that is used to judge or understand something else
The professor used the study as a reference point for evaluating and discussing other theories.
Examples of reference point in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In the past century, however, a new reference point emerged.
—
Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Forbes.com, 25 Aug. 2025
Perhaps only 20 wagon loads or truck loads get sold, but these reported prices serve as a reference point for other farmers wanting to buy or sell by private treaty.
—Edward Lotterman, Twin Cities, 17 Aug. 2025
Lucio — leggy, brave, sturdy in the challenge — is probably more appropriate as a reference point.
—Jack Lang, New York Times, 8 Aug. 2025
Roberts provided examples like a company renting Lexus cars needing to use that trademark or comparative advertising using Tiffany's diamonds as a reference point to hype their lower prices.
—Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 22 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for reference point
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Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Forbes.com, 25 Aug. 2025
Perhaps only 20 wagon loads or truck loads get sold, but these reported prices serve as a reference point for other farmers wanting to buy or sell by private treaty.
—Edward Lotterman, Twin Cities, 17 Aug. 2025
Lucio — leggy, brave, sturdy in the challenge — is probably more appropriate as a reference point.
—Jack Lang, New York Times, 8 Aug. 2025
Roberts provided examples like a company renting Lexus cars needing to use that trademark or comparative advertising using Tiffany's diamonds as a reference point to hype their lower prices.
—Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 22 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for reference point
Cite this Entry
“Reference point.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reference%20point. Accessed 4 Sep. 2025.
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