Synonyms of refer

refer 1 of 2

verb (1)

ri-ˈfər 

as in to apply

to have a relation or connection

I don't think that rule of play refers to this particular situation

Synonyms & Similar Words

• apply
• relate
• pertain
• affect
• involve
• appertain
• have to do with
• connect
• bear
• concern
• touch
• link
• associate
• interest
• treat
• couple
• deal (with)
• interrelate
• tie in

refer (to)

2 of 2

verb (2)

1

as in to specify

to make reference to or speak about briefly but specifically

try not to refer to the recent death of her aunt

Synonyms & Similar Words

• specify
• mention
• notice
• cite
• indicate
• note
• quote
• touch (on or upon)
• advert (to)
• instance
• name
• suggest
• introduce
• explain
• allude (to)
• imply
• point (out)
• announce
• intend
• infer
• clarify
• drop
• publish
• hint (at)
• pronounce
• signal
• spell out
• designate
• signify
• bring up
• declare
• advertise
• proclaim
• intimate
• clear (up)
• worm
• broadcast
• sound
• publicize
• interject
• denominate
• elucidate
• interpolate
• infiltrate
• interpose
• insinuate
• broach
• explicate

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• forget
• ignore
• pass over
• slight
• disregard
• neglect
• overlook
• overpass

2

as in to go (to)

to use or seek out as a source of aid, relief, or advantage

she studied so she wouldn't have to refer to the book during the exam

Synonyms & Similar Words

• go (to)
• consult
• turn (to)
• resort (to)
• use
• fall back on
• utilize
• depend (on)
• rely (on)
• employ

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of refer

Verb

The Federal Aviation Administration, as well as officials at airports in Chicago and Dallas, referred questions to the airline. —Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 27 June 2025

Going forward, the group will refer them to the Trevor Project, which Yoon said would continue to offer crisis support independently, 24/7. —Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2025

Your doctor or medical insurance company may be able to refer you to a licensed psychotherapist while keeping the matter confidential. —Jeanne Phillips, Mercury News, 26 June 2025

When asked for comment, an Amazon spokesperson referred NPR to the organizers' statement. —Rachel Treisman, NPR, 23 June 2025

Phrases Containing refer

• refer (to)