cross reference
Definition
- Noun:
- A reference in a text to another part of the same text: A "cross reference" is a note or direction that tells the reader to look elsewhere in the same book, document, or database for related information. It is often indicated by phrases like "see also" or "see page X."
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The dictionary includes a cross reference from "happy" to "joyful." (A note directing the reader to the entry for "joyful" for further information.)
- When writing a report, use a cross reference to link related sections without repeating text. (A direction to another part of the document.)
Advanced Usage
"to provide a cross reference": to include a note that directs the reader to another part of the text.
- The index provides a cross reference from "syntax" to "grammar." (The index directs the reader to the "grammar" entry.)
"to be cross-referenced": to have a cross reference included.
- Each term in the glossary is cross-referenced with its definition in the main text. (Each term has a note linking to its definition.)
Variants and Related Words
Cross-reference (verb): to provide a cross reference for something.
- The editor cross-referenced all the footnotes with the bibliography. (The editor added notes linking footnotes to the bibliography.)
Cross-referencing (noun): the act of making cross references.
- Cross-referencing improves the usability of a technical manual. (The process of linking related parts.)
Synonyms
- Citation: a reference to a source or another part of a text.
- Reference: a mention of another source or section.
- See also: a common phrase used to indicate a cross reference.
Related Idioms
"See also": a common phrase used to introduce a cross reference.
- For more details, see also the appendix. (A cross reference directing to the appendix.)
"In the same vein": used to indicate a related topic, but not a formal cross reference.
- In the same vein, the earlier chapter discusses similar concepts. (Related but not a direct cross reference.)