What is the missing word in the following sentence:-
I am writing with _____ to my application.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → reference
Complete sentence: I am writing with reference to my application. It is common in formal letters to name the earlier letter, advertisement or application that the writer is following up: "I am writing with reference to my application."
| Option | Used to show | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) reference (answer) | With reference to is a fixed phrase meaning about, in connection with. | With reference to your letter of 5 May, we are pleased to offer you the post. |
| (2) relation | The usual phrase is "in relation to" (concerning). "With relation to" is rare and is not the set phrase used in a letter to refer to an application. | The police asked him some questions in relation to the theft. |
| (3) refering | The word is misspelt (the correct form is referring), and an -ing verb cannot follow "with" here. The phrase needs the noun "reference". | Was she referring to me in her speech? |
| (4) none of these | – | – |