A reference is a mention of something, a source cited, or a statement about a person's character and ability. A preference is a liking for one thing over another. With reference to your letter; a preference for tea. One word points; the other chooses.
The core difference
- reference — a mention or allusion; a source consulted or cited; a character statement from an employer; a standard to compare against. A reference to the war, list of references, a glowing reference, reference point.
- preference — a greater liking for one option; priority. A preference for quiet, in order of preference, given preference.
The tell
The verbs underneath settle it: refer and prefer. A reference refers to something; a preference prefers something. If you could swap in choice or liking, the word is preference. If you could swap in mention or source, it is reference.
In use
- reference — The letter made no reference to the fee. Her former manager wrote the reference.
- preference — She has a preference for window seats. List the options in order of preference.
Common slips
- with preference to your email → with reference to your email
- a reference for window seats → a preference for window seats
Refer back; prefer before.
Where the words come from
Both are Latin ferre, "to carry", with a prefix. Reference is re-, "back" — carrying the reader back to a source. Preference is prae-, "before" — carrying one thing in front of another. Prefer is recorded in English from the fourteenth century, refer from the same period.
Frequently asked questions
What is a character reference?
A statement from someone who knows you, usually an employer or teacher, about your abilities and conduct. The person who writes it is a referee.
Is it "with reference to" or "with preference to"?
With reference to — concerning, about. "In preference to" means rather than.
What does "in order of preference" mean?
Listed from the option you like most to the one you like least.