Full Idea
A definite description may contribute either the singular predicate it encodes (attributive use) or the mental file to what that predicate belongs (referential use).
Gist of Idea
Definite descriptions reveal either a predicate (attributive use) or the file it belongs in (referential)
Source
François Recanati (Mental Files [2012], 17.1)
Book Reference
Recanati,François: 'Mental Files' [OUP 2012], p.224
A Reaction
This nicely explains Donnellan's distinction in terms of mental files. 'Green' may refer in a shop, but isn't much use in a wood. What to make of 'He's a bit of a Bismark'?