I remember

USAGE SUMMARY

"I remember" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to remind someone about a previous event or to recall a moment from the past. For example, "I remember the first time you told me about your dream job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

— Oh, right, I remember.

The New Yorker

"I remember things fine.

The New Yorker

I remember that moment.

The New Yorker

‘I remember it happening.

The Guardian - Film

I remember certain people.

The New Yorker

"I remember that place".

The New Yorker

"Well, I remember you!

The New York Times

I remember everything.

The New York Times - Sports

I remember the lesbians.

The Economist

"I remember that feeling".

The New York Times

I remember your mother".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I remember" to introduce a personal anecdote or a specific detail from the past to make your writing more engaging and relatable.

Common error

While "I remember" is perfectly acceptable in many situations, overuse in formal writing can make your tone seem too casual. Opt for more formal alternatives like "I recall" or "I recollect" in academic papers or professional reports.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I remember" functions as a declarative statement expressing the act of recalling something from the past. As Ludwig AI explains, it's a common way to introduce a memory or anecdote.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I remember" is a highly common and grammatically sound way to express recollection. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, it serves the purpose of sharing past experiences and adding personal context to narratives. While versatile, consider using more formal alternatives like "I recall" in academic or professional settings. Understanding the nuances of its usage, as highlighted in the writing guidance, allows for more effective and contextually appropriate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I recall

More formal synonym for "I remember".

I recollect

Similar to "I recall", implying a more conscious effort to remember.

I can still picture

Focuses on the visual aspect of the memory.

I have a vivid memory of

Emphasizes the clarity and detail of the memory.

I bring to mind

A more literary or reflective way to express remembering.

I haven't forgotten

Highlights the lasting nature of the memory.

It comes back to me

Suggests a memory that is surfacing after being forgotten.

I cherish the memory of

Indicates a fond and treasured recollection.

My mind goes back to

Highlights the act of mental travel to a past event.

I retain the impression of

Suggests a more abstract or sensory memory.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "I remember"?

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

How to use "I remember" in a sentence?

"I remember" is typically followed by the thing you are recalling, for example, "I remember the day we met" or "I remember that feeling".

Is it correct to say "I remember when"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. For example: "I remember when we used to play in the park."

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

While both phrases express remembrance, "I recall" often implies a more conscious or deliberate effort to bring something to mind, whereas "I remember" can be more spontaneous.