reference

Reference is the relation between a linguistic expression, symbol, or object and the entity it denotes or points to. In common use, reference can be linguistic (a word referring to something), bibliographic (a citation to a source), or computational (a value that points to data).

In linguistics, reference concerns how expressions connect to real or imagined things. Proper names have referents; pronouns depend on context; deictic expressions require perspective. Anaphora links a pronoun to a previously mentioned noun phrase, while zero anaphora implies an implied reference.

In scholarly writing, a reference or citation directs readers to sources that support statements. A reference includes author, title, publication details, and location such as page numbers or a DOI. A references section or bibliography lists all cited works and enables verification and further study.

In computing, a reference (often called a pointer) is a value that designates the location of a data object. Some languages distinguish references from values; management methods such as reference counting or garbage collection control lifetime. References support data sharing and flexible structures but can cause errors if invalid or circular.

In philosophy and semantics, reference describes how terms stand for objects in the world. Theories distinguish reference from sense or use; theories of name reference address how language attaches to reality. Frege's distinction between Sinn (sense) and Bedeutung (reference) is a foundational concept.

More broadly, to reference something is to mention or allude to it as a source or authority. Reference materials—dictionaries, encyclopedias, and standard manuals—are used for fact checking, guidance, and verification.