Difference between 'refer' and 'refer to'

Question

Dear Sir / Madam,Please clarify me about the difference between 'refer' and 'refer to' the usage of these in different contexts.

Avangi · Accepted Answer

"Refer" is an intransitive verb. It doesn't take a direct object. You can't "refer something."

You can refer something to someone, and you can refer to something.

Can you refer me to a good attorney? ("Me" is the indirect object.)

My previous remarks refer to my first wife.

Edit.
I'm having second thoughts about my explanation.

I referred John to a book on grammar.
"John" seems like the direct object of "referred" in this case.
It's reminiscent of your introductory post: Please clarify me about the difference etc.
To me, it would be more natural to say, "Please clarify the difference etc."

http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/refer

The online dictionaries provide both transitive and intransitive meanings. Both generally require the use of "to."

Difference between 'refer' and 'refer to'

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