Do you recall

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Do you recall" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when asking someone if they remember a specific event, detail, or piece of information. Example: "Do you recall the meeting we had last month about the new project?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Do you recall?

The New Yorker

Do you recall that?

The New York Times - Books

Do you recall those details?

The New Yorker

Do you recall what was discussed?

The New Yorker

Do you recall the first Shakespeare play you ever saw?

The New York Times

Do you recall what time you went home?

The New Yorker

Do you recall filing a story that day?

The New Yorker

Do you recall your first day at the New Yorker?

Independent

"Do you recall when Elvis died?" he asked.

The New York Times

Do you recall the beginning of this year?

The New York Times

"Do you recall how he pushed you?" Searcey asked.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When clarity is key, provide enough context when asking "Do you recall" to ensure the other person understands the specific event or detail you're referencing.

Common error

While "Do you recall" is grammatically correct, excessive use in everyday conversation can sound stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "Do you remember" in casual settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Do you recall" functions as an interrogative expression, specifically used to inquire whether someone remembers a particular event, fact, or detail. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a grammatically correct way to initiate such inquiries.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

81%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Do you recall" is a grammatically correct and frequently used interrogative phrase employed to inquire about someone's memory of a particular event or detail. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples from diverse sources, primarily news and media outlets. While it functions effectively in eliciting information and jogging memories, it is important to consider the context and audience, as it carries a slightly formal tone. Alternatives like "Do you remember" may be more suitable for casual conversations. Overall, "Do you recall" remains a versatile and valuable tool for prompting recollection, especially in professional or official communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Do you remember

More direct and common alternative for asking if someone remembers something.

Can you remember

Similar to "Do you remember", but emphasizes the ability to recall.

Do you recollect

A more formal and less common synonym for "recall".

Can you bring to mind

Emphasizes the effort of actively trying to remember something.

What do you remember about

A broader question prompting a more detailed recollection.

Do you have any memory of

Focuses on whether any memory exists at all.

Does it ring a bell

Idiomatic expression used to inquire if something seems familiar.

Does that sound familiar

Checks if something is known or recognizable.

Is it coming back to you

Asks if a memory is gradually returning.

Are you familiar with

Inquires about general knowledge rather than specific recall.

FAQs

What's a simpler way to say "Do you recall"?

You can use the phrase "do you remember" in most situations as a more direct and less formal alternative.

Is "Do you recall" appropriate for formal settings?

Yes, "Do you recall" is suitable for formal settings like legal proceedings, interviews, or when addressing someone with respect. It carries a slightly more formal tone than "Do you remember".

What's the difference between "Do you recall" and "Do you remember"?

"Do you recall" is generally perceived as more formal than "do you remember". The choice depends on the context and the desired level of formality.

How can I make sure the other person understands what I'm asking when I say "Do you recall"?

Provide sufficient context. For example, instead of just saying "Do you recall", you could say "Do you recall the meeting we had last week about the budget?"