reference point
noun
: something that is used to judge or understand something else
The professor used the study as a reference point for evaluating and discussing other theories.
Examples of reference point in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
By leaning on this blockchain technology for trust, the aggregator gains a robust shield against tampering, ensuring the aggregated proof has a canonical reference point that anyone can independently verify.
—
Ayush Gupta, Forbes, 24 Jan. 2025
The measurement the agency chose as a reference point was a fluke, ProPublica found, and had not met the quality control standards of the local air monitoring body.
—Sharon Lerner, ProPublica, 18 Dec. 2024
Her reference point, unfortunately, should be Marie Antoinette in a tumbril, en route to the guillotine.
—Tom Gliatto, People.com, 10 Jan. 2025
Using again, Deathly Hallows as a reference point, Part 2 of that did make quite a bit more than Part 1.
—Paul Tassi, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for reference point 
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Ayush Gupta, Forbes, 24 Jan. 2025
The measurement the agency chose as a reference point was a fluke, ProPublica found, and had not met the quality control standards of the local air monitoring body.
—Sharon Lerner, ProPublica, 18 Dec. 2024
Her reference point, unfortunately, should be Marie Antoinette in a tumbril, en route to the guillotine.
—Tom Gliatto, People.com, 10 Jan. 2025
Using again, Deathly Hallows as a reference point, Part 2 of that did make quite a bit more than Part 1.
—Paul Tassi, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for reference point
Dictionary Entries Near reference point
Cite this Entry
“Reference point.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reference%20point. Accessed 1 Feb. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share