referentiemaaltje

Referentiemaaltje is a Dutch neologism that is not widely documented in standard dictionaries. In informal use, the term designates a small referent used to anchor a statement or argument, often in a light or playful way. The word blends referentie (reference) with maaltje, a diminutive form that suggests something small or digestible.

Meaning and concept: It refers to a minimal reference point that helps a listener or reader grasp a larger idea without elaboration. A referentiemaaltje can be a keyword, a brief example, a single datum, or a concise cue that serves as an anchor in discourse. It is not a fixed technical term, but a niche expression used to describe a communicative strategy.

Usage and examples: The expression appears mainly in informal contexts such as blogs, forums, or discussions about communication. It may carry a humorous or critical tone, for instance when someone relies on a single reference rather than presenting full arguments. Example sentence: Dat is slechts een referentiemaaltje; er ontbreekt het bredere bewijs.

Etymology and nuance: The combination of referentie and maaltje signals a bite-sized, easily digestible reference point. Its usage remains limited to certain communities and it lacks a formal definition in major Dutch dictionaries. Related concepts include referentie and referent, as well as broader ideas around discourse anchoring and digestible cues.