Terrible memory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Terrible memory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who has a poor ability to remember things or to refer to a specific instance of forgetfulness. Example: "I have a terrible memory for names, so I often forget the people I meet at events."

✓ Grammatically correct

Personal anecdotes

Character descriptions

Discussion of events

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

IT IS a terrible memory.

The Economist

I have a terrible memory.

The New Yorker

What is your most terrible memory?

Independent

The man has a terrible memory.

The New York Times

EDWARD: Well what was your most terrible memory?

University of California, Berkeley

I just have this terrible memory for names and faces".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Brings back terrible memories.

Independent

I often have these terrible memories.

Independent

It brought back terrible memories of my childhood.

Independent

It is one of my most terrible memories".

The New Yorker

Even the word for leader, Führer, conjures up terrible memories.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character in fiction, use "terrible memory" to create a sense of fallibility or vulnerability.

Common error

Avoid frequently attributing mistakes or oversights to a "terrible memory" without taking responsibility. It can come across as insincere or dismissive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "terrible memory" functions primarily as a noun phrase modified by an adjective. Ludwig AI confirms its use in describing a person's poor ability to recall information, as seen in various examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "terrible memory" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a poor ability to recall information. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts, as evidenced by numerous examples from reputable sources. While it's often used in news, personal stories, and general discussions, it's important to avoid overusing it as a convenient excuse. Consider alternatives like "poor memory" or "awful memory" for slightly different nuances. Using this phrase effectively requires balancing honesty with responsibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

poor memory

Replaces "terrible" with a more neutral adjective, indicating a lack of good memory skills.

awful memory

Substitutes "terrible" with a synonym that also implies a very bad memory.

bad memory

Uses a simpler, more direct adjective to convey the same meaning.

weak memory

Emphasizes the frailty or ineffectiveness of one's memory.

faulty memory

Implies that the memory is not functioning correctly or reliably.

unreliable memory

Highlights the inconsistency and untrustworthiness of one's memory.

forgetful nature

Focuses on the characteristic of being prone to forgetting things.

lacking in recall

Emphasizes the deficiency in the ability to remember or retrieve information.

deficient memory

Indicates a significant impairment or inadequacy in memory function.

challenged memory

Emphasizes the difficulty of one's memory to perform properly.

FAQs

How can I use "terrible memory" in a sentence?

You can use "terrible memory" to describe someone who forgets things easily. For example, "I have a "terrible memory" for names and faces".

What are some synonyms for "terrible memory"?

Alternatives to "terrible memory" include "poor memory", "awful memory", or "bad memory".

Is it better to say "poor memory" or "terrible memory"?

Both "terrible memory" and "poor memory" are acceptable. "Terrible" emphasizes the severity of the memory issues, while "poor" is more neutral.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "terrible memory"?

It is appropriate to use the phrase "terrible memory" when discussing forgetfulness or difficulty recalling information, either in oneself or in others. However, avoid using it to excuse careless behavior.