Am I correct in stating that the input signal is applied to the base with reference to the emitter in a grounded emitter transistor?

or is the input signal applied to the emitter with reference to the base?

I'm confused with the text.

 

Hi,

A grounded emitter transistor has the drive signal applied to the base, usually through a resistance to control base current. The output signal comes off the collector, and is phase shifted by 180 degrees. The collector is normally connected to a voltage source through another current limiting resistance. The ratio of abse to collector current gives the gain of the circuit.