Reference de re versus de dicto

Subtle semantical issues arise when we refer to an object or individual directly, to the thing itself, or instead under a description, which may find a different meaning in different circumstances.

Let us explore a certain subtle distinction in the nature of reference. Suppose for the New Year's Eve party you have prepared a bountiful spread of delectables, and your partner announces, “The lobster bisque in the center pot is divine! Shall we have this dish again next year?” To your astonishment, everyone agrees, but you are thinking—How odd. Surely it will be spoilt by then!