Translation guide
The English verb 'refer' has several distinct uses. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression depending on whether you mean 'mention', 'consult a source', 'describe', 'direct someone to', or 'relate to'.
To bring up or speak about someone or something in conversation or writing.
Formal and precise, used in writing and formal speech. Often used with に to indicate the topic.
彼はその問題に言及した。
He referred to the issue.
To touch upon a topic briefly. Common in both speech and writing. Often used with に.
会議でその点に触れた。
I referred to that point in the meeting.
Casual way to say 'talk about'. Use when 'refer' simply means 'mention' in everyday conversation.
彼は昨日のパーティーのことを話した。
He referred to yesterday's party.
To look at or use a book, document, website, etc. for information.
Standard term for referring to a reference source. Used with を.
詳細はマニュアルを参照してください。
Please refer to the manual for details.
To use as a reference or guide. Slightly less formal than 参照する. Often used in study contexts.
この本を参考にしてレポートを書いた。
I wrote the report referring to this book.
Casual and common. Simply means 'look at'. Suitable for everyday situations.
辞書を見てください。
Please refer to the dictionary.
To use a particular word or name to describe someone or something.
Means 'to call (someone/something) X'. Use when 'refer to as' is meant.
彼のことを先生と呼んでいます。
We refer to him as 'teacher'.
Literally 'use the word ~'. Useful when explaining terminology.
この現象を「エルニーニョ」という言葉を使って説明します。
We refer to this phenomenon using the term 'El Niño'.
To send or direct someone to a person, place, or service for help or information.
To refer someone to a specialist, department, etc. Implies a personal introduction or recommendation.
専門医を紹介します。
I'll refer you to a specialist.
To pass on or forward a matter to another person or department. Common in business.
その件は担当部署に回します。
I'll refer the matter to the relevant department.
To be connected with or relevant to something.
Means 'to be related to'. Use when 'refer' means 'pertain to'.
この規則は全社員に関係する。
This rule refers to all employees.
A more explanatory phrase: 'is about ~'. Suitable for clarifying what something refers to.
このデータは昨年度の売上についてのものです。
This data refers to last year's sales.
Do not translate 'refer' as a single Japanese verb in all contexts. The appropriate word depends heavily on the intended meaning. Using 参照する when you mean 'mention' will sound unnatural.