Italian Phrase
Chi devo mettere come riferimento?
Meaning
The speaker is asking who they should list as a reference, typically in a job application, academic dossier, or any situation where a third‑party endorsement is required.
When to use
Use this question when you need to know which person you can cite as a professional or academic reference, such as filling out a curriculum vitae, a scholarship form, or a rental application.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Chidevometterecomeriferimento
Chi (interrogative pronoun)
Used to ask about a person; it does not change for gender or number.
devo (dovere, 1st person singular)
Expresses obligation or necessity; followed by an infinitive.
mettere (infinitive)
Means 'to put' or 'to place'; here it works as 'to list' or 'to name'.
come (as, like)
Introduces a role or function; comparable to English 'as'.
riferimento (noun)
Literally 'reference'; in this context it means a person who can vouch for you.
🗨In Conversation
Chi devo mettere come riferimento per la mia candidatura?
Who should I list as a reference for my application?
Puoi indicare il tuo ex‑capo, Marco Rossi, perché conosce bene il tuo lavoro.
You can list your former manager, Marco Rossi, because he knows your work well.
✕Common Mistakes
Che devo mettere come riferimento?
Use "chi" for people, not "che" which refers to things or ideas.
Chi devo mettere a come riferimento?
The verb "mettere" does not need the preposition "a" in this construction.
Chi devo mettere di riferimento?
The correct preposition is "come" (as), not "di" (of).
↔Alternatives
Chi devo indicare come riferimento?
Who should I indicate as a reference?
Chi posso citare come riferimento?
Who can I cite as a reference?
Quale persona devo mettere come riferimento?
Which person should I list as a reference?
Cultural Tip
In Italy, it is common to provide at least two references, preferably people who have directly supervised your work or studies. When you name them, use their full name and title (e.g., Dott. Marco Rossi) and always ask for their permission first. Formal written requests often start with "Gentile Sig./Sig.ra…" and end with a polite thank‑you.