frame of reference

frame of reference
    n 1: a system that uses coordinates to establish position [syn:
         {coordinate system}, {frame of reference}, {reference
         system}, {reference frame}]
    2: a system of assumptions and standards that sanction behavior
       and give it meaning [syn: {frame of reference}, {frame}]
    

Frame of reference \Frame of reference\, n.
   1. an arbitrary set of spatial coordinates used to describe
      the position or motion of objects. The coordinates may be
      fixed or moving; as, a rotating frame of reference.
      [PJC]

   2. a set of assumptions or conditions that are used to
      discuss or understand something; as, a religious frame of
      reference.
      [PJC]
    

26 Moby Thesaurus words for "frame of reference":
      Anschauung, angle, angle of vision, basis, eye, footing, framework,
      light, mental outlook, outlook, place, point of view, position,
      reference system, regard, respect, side, sight, situation, slant,
      stand, standpoint, system, universe, view, viewpoint