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la referencia means reference — a common term in Academic & Exam Prep. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: December 16, 2025

🧠 Academic & Exam Prep

la referencia

noun • /[re-fe-REN-sya]/

reference

Example:

Cita cada referencia correctamente.

Cite each reference properly.

🧠 What does la referencia mean?

La referencia is a feminine noun that translates to 'reference'. It has several key uses. In an academic or professional context, it most often means a source of information, such as an entry in a bibliography or a citation within a text. It can also signify a mention or an allusion to something. Additionally, 'una referencia' can be a recommendation from a person, like a former employer. In a broader sense, it can be a point of comparison or a standard, often as 'punto de referencia'.

📚 Extra examples

  • Cada afirmación en el informe debe estar respaldada por una referencia a una fuente fiable.
    Every claim in the report must be supported by a reference to a reliable source.
  • El orador hizo una breve referencia a los eventos históricos que llevaron a la situación actual.
    The speaker made a brief reference to the historical events that led to the current situation.
  • Para solicitar el puesto, necesitas al menos dos cartas de referencia.
    To apply for the position, you need at least two letters of reference.
  • La torre Eiffel sirve como punto de referencia para orientarse en París.
    The Eiffel Tower serves as a reference point for finding your way around Paris.
  • Por favor, indique el número de referencia del pedido al hacer su consulta.
    Please provide the order reference number when making your inquiry.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'referencia' is closely related to the verb 'referir' (to refer, to relate) and the common phrase 'con referencia a' or 'en referencia a', meaning 'with reference to' or 'regarding'. Understanding this word family can help expand vocabulary and comprehension.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "la referencia"

Synonyms: la alusión, la mención, la cita, la recomendación, el dato
Opposites: la omisión, el silencio, el desconocimiento

🔍 See more academic & exam prep words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'reference' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'reference' is 'la referencia'.
How do you pronounce 'la referencia' in Spanish?
It is pronounced: lah rreh-feh-REHN-syah. The 'r' at the beginning of 'referencia' is rolled. The 'c' is pronounced like an 's' in Latin America and as 'th' in most of Spain.
How do you use 'la referencia' in a sentence?
A common example is: 'El libro contiene una lista de referencias al final de cada capítulo.' (The book contains a list of references at the end of each chapter.)
What is the English translation of 'la referencia'?
The English translation of 'la referencia' is 'reference'.
Does 'la referencia' change for gender or number?
'Referencia' is a feminine noun. Its plural form is 'las referencias'.
Is 'la referencia' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, it is very common, particularly in academic, business, and formal conversations. While less frequent in very casual chat, it is a standard and widely understood word.
Does 'la referencia' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'la referencia' does not have common slang meanings. Its use is quite direct and consistent with its formal definitions.
Is 'la referencia' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The meaning and use of 'la referencia' are consistent across the Spanish-speaking world. The only notable variation is the regional pronunciation of the 'c' ('-cia').

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