Made reference

Question

Jake made reference to John's crying when in a conversation with Emily.Does this make sense? I don't understand understand 'made reference'

Fivejedjon · Accepted Answer

He made reference to it - he referred to it - he mentioned it

Anonymous · Answer

But why not sat 'Jon referenced' instead?

What is the function of 'made'?

Fivejedjon · Answer

AnonymousBut why not sat 'Jon referenced' instead?

The American Heritage Dictionary gives this usage note:

Usage Note: Though originally a noun, reference is often used as a transitive verb meaning "to supply (a book, article, or other work) with references." People also use the verb to mean "To cite as a reference" or simply "To mention or allude to." Though some traditionalists oppose these latter two uses of reference, the usage is most widely accepted when the context involves actual citing of sources. For instance, in our 2013 survey, fully 70 percent of the Usage Panel found The paper references several articles on global warming at least somewhat acceptable, while only 37 percent accepted the sentence During the press conference, the mayor referenced the recent floods.

Made reference

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