Cultural references are mentions or allusions to well-known aspects of a culture, such as literature, music, movies, or historical events. They help convey ideas or emotions by tapping into shared knowledge among a group of people. For example, saying someone is "like Romeo" evokes the character from Shakespeare's play, suggesting romantic qualities. These references can vary widely across different cultures and communities. They often rely on familiarity with specific works or events, making them effective in communication. For instance, using the phrase "the American Dream" refers to a widely recognized concept in U.S. culture about achieving success through hard work.