I recalled that

USAGE SUMMARY

"I recalled that" is a perfectly acceptable phrase to use in written English.
It generally indicates that the speaker has remembered something from their own past experience. For example, you could say: "I recalled that the last time I visited, the park was full of blooming flowers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Walking through a museum, years later, I recalled that moment in my room as I passed the statues of Greek and Egyptian gods.

The Guardian - Opinion

On the Gillmor Gang, I recalled that moment when Gabe Rivera suggested I log into Twitter.

TechCrunch

I recalled that one reason Riccio had quit the Youth Board was his wife's fear that he might be beaten up himself.

The New Yorker

He and I recalled that following Pres.

The New York Times

I recalled that the Seychellois are actually gifted linguists.

The New York Times - Travel

Then I recalled that at the heart of each meal is an interval of exceptional pasta.

The New York Times - Food

I was confused, until I recalled that "glass" was thief's slang for diamonds.

The New Yorker

I recalled that in the 1990s his large generous sculptures standing in the median of Park Avenue caused a sensation.

Stanford University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Strips of white tape on glass panes, I recalled that, and a vacant security desk.

The Guardian - Books

Then I recalled that my friend hated his boss.

The New York Times

I recalled that at the end of her formal indoctrination, Monsignor Fulton Sheen had told her the time had come to undertake a plenary confession.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I recalled that" to introduce a specific memory or piece of information that is relevant to the current context. It adds a personal touch and helps connect the past with the present.

Common error

While appropriate in many contexts, avoid overusing "I recalled that" in formal academic or business writing. Opt for more concise and objective phrasing like "It is important to note that..." or "As previously mentioned...".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I recalled that" functions as a clause introducer, linking a personal memory or recollection to a statement or observation. Ludwig examples show its versatility across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I recalled that" serves as a useful tool for introducing a personal memory or relevant piece of information. Ludwig's analysis reveals that it is grammatically sound and frequently used, particularly in News & Media and Academia. The examples available in Ludwig confirm its versatility across different contexts, emphasizing its role in providing context and establishing a personal connection with the audience. Remember to use this phrase judiciously, considering more concise options in highly formal settings. According to Ludwig AI, "I recalled that" is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English. This phrase generally indicates that the speaker has remembered something from their own past experience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I remembered that

Direct synonym, focusing on the act of remembering.

I recollected that

A more formal synonym for 'recalled', implying a more deliberate effort to remember.

I realized that

Focuses on the moment of understanding or becoming aware of something.

It came to me that

Suggests a sudden realization or remembering of something.

I was reminded that

Indicates that something external triggered the memory.

I understood that

Highlights comprehension rather than simple recall.

I became aware that

Emphasizes gaining knowledge or consciousness of something.

I had not forgotten that

Indicates that memory was there all along, but just needed to be accessed.

I reflected that

implies contemplation and deeper thought about something remembered.

I thought back to

Focuses on directing one's thoughts to a past event or memory, but doesn't necessarily include "that".

FAQs

How can I use "I recalled that" in a sentence?

You can use "I recalled that" to introduce a memory or a piece of information you remembered, for example, "I recalled that /s/the+meeting+was+scheduled for Tuesday/".

What are some alternatives to "I recalled that"?

Alternatives include "I remembered that", "I recollected that", or "I realized that", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "I recalled that" or "I remembered that"?

"I recalled that" and "I remembered that" are often interchangeable, but "I recalled that" can suggest a more conscious effort to bring something back to mind.

When is it best to use "I recalled that" in writing?

Use "I recalled that" when you want to emphasize a personal connection to the information being presented, or when the act of remembering is itself significant to the narrative. Be mindful not to overuse it in formal contexts.