terms of reference (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun Phrase

Phonetic Transcription

/tɜrmz əv ˈrɛfərəns/

Meaning and Usage

"Terms of reference" refers to the formal description of the purpose and structure of a project, committee, or study. This phrase outlines the objectives, scope, and guidelines that define how an activity will be carried out. It is commonly used in contractual, governmental, and organizational contexts.

Frequency of Use: This phrase is frequently used in written contexts, especially in academic, legal, and business documents. It is less common in informal oral speech but can be used in meetings or discussions regarding projects.

Example Sentences

1. The committee's terms of reference clearly outline its objectives and responsibilities.
   Комитет's термины ссылки четко определяют его цели и обязанности.

2. Before beginning the project, we need to establish the terms of reference to ensure all stakeholders are aligned.
   Перед началом проекта нам необходимо установить термины ссылки, чтобы гарантировать согласование всех заинтересованных сторон.

3. The terms of reference for the study were approved by the board yesterday.
   Термины ссылки для исследования были одобрены советом вчера.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Terms of reference" may not feature prominently in idiomatic expressions, but it is often used in phrases that pertain to governance, clarity, and agreement-related contexts. Here are a few examples:

1. "The terms of reference must be set in stone before we proceed."
   Термины ссылки должны быть установлены четко, прежде чем мы продолжим.

2. "We need to go back to the terms of reference to ensure we aren't straying from our goals."
   Нам нужно вернуться к терминам ссылки, чтобы убедиться, что мы не отклоняемся от наших целей.

3. "Aligning our actions with the terms of reference will help streamline the process."
   Соответствие наших действий терминам ссылки поможет оптимизировать процесс.

4. "If there's ambiguity in the terms of reference, it can lead to misunderstandings."
   Если существует неясность в терминах ссылки, это может привести к недопониманиям.

5. "The terms of reference should include measurable outcomes to evaluate success."
   Термины ссылки должны включать измеряемые результаты для оценки успеха.

Etymology

The term "reference" originates from the Latin word "referre," meaning "to bring back." The word "terms" refers to the conditions or stipulations set for agreements or situations. Combined, "terms of reference" has evolved to signify the specific conditions set for conducting work or studies.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Guidelines - Terms of engagement - Scope of work

Antonyms: - Ambiguity - Indefiniteness - Vagueness