What is an indirect reference to a well-known event or text called?

An indirect reference to a well-known event or text is called an allusion. This term is used to indicate a subtle or implied reference that draws on the cultural knowledge or shared experiences of the audience. By using an allusion, a writer can create connections and evoke deeper meaning without needing to explain everything in detail. In literature and communication, allusions enrich the text, allowing readers to engage with the underlying themes or context more cognitively and emotionally.

The other choices do not convey the same idea. A quotation involves directly stating something said or written by someone else, providing an explicit reference rather than a subtle one. A reference is a broader term that can include various types of mentions, both direct and indirect, but does not specifically highlight the indirect nature characteristic of an allusion. A footnote traditionally offers additional information or citations at the bottom of a page and does not pertain to the concept of indirect references within the text itself.