Referee
ref-uh-REE /ˌrefəˈriː/
Formal Neutral
What it really means
A person who agrees to give you a reference — usually a former manager, or a tutor if you have not worked before. UK applications often ask for two referees. Always ask someone before naming them, and never list family members.
Chinese explanation
推荐人（referee）：同意为你提供推荐评价的人——通常是前上司，没工作过的话可以是导师。英国求职申请常要求提供两位推荐人。写别人名字前一定先征得同意，也不要填家人。
Example conversation
A: The form asks for two referees.
B: Put your placement manager and your personal tutor — but ask them first.
A：申请表要填两位推荐人。
B：写你实习时的经理和你的导师——但要先问过他们。
Official sources
Rules and amounts change — confirm important details with the official source.
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Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team
· Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake