I can remember

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I can remember" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing the ability to recall past events or information. Example: "I can remember the day we first met; it was a beautiful sunny afternoon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I can remember that.

The New Yorker

I can remember".

The New Yorker

I can remember arriving there.

Independent

I can remember her Coronation.

Independent

Long as I can remember.

The New Yorker

I can remember it vividly.

The Guardian

And I can remember Eldorado.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Firstly, I can remember them.

The Guardian

"Not that I can remember.

The New Yorker

"I can remember it all very well.

Independent

This is all what I can remember".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consider replacing "I can remember" with stronger verbs like "recall", "recollect", or "memorize" for greater precision.

Common error

Avoid using "I can remember" excessively in formal or academic writing. Opt for more concise and professional alternatives like "I recall" or "It is my understanding" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I can remember" functions as an intransitive verb phrase, expressing the speaker's ability to recall past events or information. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound. Examples from Ludwig show it used to introduce specific memories or anecdotes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Science

7%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I can remember" is a common and grammatically sound way to express the ability to recall past events or information. As supported by Ludwig AI, this phrase is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, it's best to consider more formal alternatives like "I recall" in academic or professional writing. Usage patterns show its frequent occurrence in personal anecdotes and contextual narratives. Avoid overuse and maintain clarity for effective communication. Remember, "I can remember" serves as a gateway to sharing experiences and connecting with others through shared or individual memories.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I recall

This alternative provides a more concise and slightly formal way to express remembering.

I recollect

Similar to 'I recall', but suggests a more deliberate effort to bring something back to mind.

I still remember

Emphasizes that the memory persists over time.

As far as I can recall

Adds a degree of uncertainty or qualification to the memory.

If I remember correctly

Similar to the previous phrase, but with a stronger emphasis on potential inaccuracy.

It comes to mind

Focuses on the spontaneous appearance of a memory.

I have a memory of

Shifts the focus to possessing a memory rather than the act of remembering.

I retain the image of

Suggests a vivid and lasting memory, particularly of a visual scene.

I haven't forgotten

Emphasizes the lack of forgetting, rather than the act of remembering.

My memory tells me

Frames the memory as a source of information or guidance.

FAQs

How can I use "I can remember" in a sentence?

"I can remember" is used to express the ability to recall past events or information. For example, "I can remember the day we met" or "I can remember what he said".

What can I say instead of "I can remember"?

You can use alternatives like "I recall", "I recollect", or "I remember" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "I can remember back"?

While understandable, "I can remember back" is slightly redundant. It's generally better to simply say "I can remember".

What's the difference between "I can remember" and "I remember"?

"I can remember" emphasizes the ability to recall, while "I remember" is a direct statement of having a memory. They are often interchangeable, but "I can remember" may be used to highlight the act of remembering.