Spanish word

referente

Pronunciation

IPA/refeˈɾente/

Meaning

  • masculine nounstandard

Example

Este documento será un referente para todo el equipo.

This document will be a standard for the whole team.

Illustration for referente (standard)

More examples

En la comunidad, ella es un referente moral.

In the community, she is a moral role model.

Core concept

Point of reference for measuring or guiding actions.

Common phrases

  • referente moral

    moral role model

Similar words

referencia: Document or information source consulted to check facts or support a judgment.
modelo: Person or thing presented as a model or ideal to emulate.
ejemplo: Specific case or instance given to illustrate and clarify a point.
guía: Document or set of instructions that indicates a recommended method or course of action.

Definition in Spanish

Persona, cosa o idea que sirve como estándar o referencia para comparar, medir o guiar conductas.

Word origin

Originally the Latin present participle referens ('bringing or carrying back' from referre), the word came to denote whatever is taken as a point of comparison or guidance.

Usage tips

  • When used about people or institutions, referente often implies influence or authority in a domain, not just a neutral example.

Other meanings

  • referencenoun
  • modelnoun

Related words

Word lists with this word