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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
I was referred to you by
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "I was referred to you by..." is correct and usable in written English
It is used when you want to explain who connected you with someone else, such as a mutual friend or colleague. For example, "I was referred to you by Sarah Smith, who thought you might be able to help me with my project."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
I was referring to speech.
News & Media
He was referred to Neuberger by Mr. Robb.
News & Media
He was referred to Moneyline by his housing officer.
News & Media
He was referred to by both names.
News & Media
The area was referred to as "Albertopolis" by sceptics.
Wiki
North Korea was referred to the United Nations, for example, by consensus.
News & Media
(Here Smith was referring to a sermon by Martin Luther King, Jr).
News & Media
Typically, academic and office buildings are referred to primarily by number while residence halls are referred to by name.
Wiki
Pubmed abstracts can be referred to simply by their ID.
Science
Participants were referred to only by identification numbers.
Science
He was referring to the talks sponsored by China.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
✓ Best practice
When using "I was referred to you by", ensure the person you mention has given their consent to be named as a reference.
⚠ Common error
Avoid using "I was referred to you by" in extremely casual contexts. It's generally suitable for professional or semi-formal situations, but a more relaxed phrase might be better for friends or close acquaintances.
Linguistic Context
The phrase "I was referred to you by" serves as an introductory clause. It indicates the source of a recommendation or referral, establishing the connection between the speaker and the person they are addressing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English.
Expression frequency: Rare
✓ Frequent in
News & Media
30%
Science
30%
Formal & Business
20%
⚠ Less common in
Wiki
10%
Encyclopedias
5%
Reference
5%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "I was referred to you by" is a grammatically correct and usable way to introduce yourself by naming the person who suggested you make contact. Ludwig AI confirms this. It is most appropriate in neutral to professional settings. While only a few examples were found, its clear purpose is to provide context and build credibility by associating yourself with a known reference. Remember to obtain permission from the person you name as a reference beforehand. Consider alternatives like "I was recommended to you by" or "Someone suggested I contact you" depending on the context and desired level of formality.
Alternative expressions
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
I'm contacting you on the recommendation of
A formal way of indicating that contact is based on a suggestion.
A mutual acquaintance suggested I contact you
Highlights the shared connection between the parties.
I was recommended to you by
Similar to "referred", but emphasizes the act of recommendation.
I was advised to contact you by
Emphasizes that someone provided counsel to get in touch.
I was given your name by
Focuses on the act of receiving the person's contact information.
Your name was given to me by
Emphasizes that the recipient's name was provided to the speaker.
FAQs
What does it mean to be referred by someone?
Being referred means that someone suggested or recommended you to another person or service. In the context of "I was referred to you by", it indicates who made the recommendation.
How to use "I was referred to you by" in a sentence?
Use "I was referred to you by" when you want to mention who recommended you to the person you are contacting. For example, "I was referred to you by "Sarah Smith", who thought you could help me with my project."
What can I say instead of "I was referred to you by"?
You can use alternatives like "Someone suggested I contact you", "I was recommended to you by", or "I'm contacting you on the recommendation of" depending on the context.
Is it appropriate to use "I was referred to you by" in an email?
Yes, it is appropriate to use "I was referred to you by" in an email, especially in professional settings. It helps to establish credibility and provides context for your contact.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested