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English Lexicon

Terms of reference

/tɜːmz əv ˈrɛf.ər.əns/
nounCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #4500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    The scope, objectives, and limitations of a project, committee, or investigation.

    "The committee was appointed with clear terms of reference to investigate the financial irregularities."
  2. 2

    The points or matters agreed upon as the basis for a discussion or negotiation.

    "Both parties agreed on the terms of reference before beginning the diplomatic talks."
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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the plural noun 'term' (from Latin 'terminus', meaning boundary or limit) combined with 'reference' (from Latin 'referre', meaning to bring back or relate). Established in British and international administrative and legal contexts during the 19th century to denote the specified scope and limits of an inquiry, committee, or project.

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