a clear recollection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clear recollection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a vivid or distinct memory of an event or information. Example: "After reviewing the documents, I had a clear recollection of the meeting we had last month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"I don't have a clear recollection," the senator said.

The Guardian

He insisted, "I still have a clear recollection of it".

The New York Times

As a 59-year-old, I have a clear recollection of these unfortunate events.

The New York Times - Health

Then why does a clear recollection of that red-letter day, as if too painful, refuse to reach consciousness?

The New Yorker

Don Was, the Grammy Award-winning producer, has a clear recollection of his first encounter with Blue Note Records.

The New York Times - Arts

Emery responded Saturday night that McNamee has a clear recollection of Clemens, his wife, nanny and children attending at least part of Canseco's party, which lasted several hours.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

To have a clearer recollection than they do would be unfair.

The New York Times

Few of Tulle's older townspeople have any clear recollection of the hangings.

The New York Times - Books

This bear appears to mean business.The bull market lasted so long that many of today's investors (Japan excepted) have no clear recollection of what a bear market is like.

The Economist

They had listened closely as she described the two strangers who attacked her, how the main perpetrator had worn a Nike hoodie, how she thought she had temporarily lost consciousness after being knocked to the ground, how she had felt a "thud" in her vagina but had no clear recollection of what had happened.

The Guardian

I have a misted memory of the children's books I borrowed, but the first clear recollection was when I was six and decided to borrow a book on Adolf Hitler.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clear recollection" when you want to emphasize that your memory of something is vivid, detailed, and reliable. It adds a level of certainty to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "a clear recollection" too frequently in your writing, as it can sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "vivid memory" or "distinct remembrance" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear recollection" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb. It describes the state of having a vivid and distinct memory of something. As Ludwig AI suggests, it indicates a reliable and detailed remembrance.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clear recollection" is a noun phrase used to describe a vivid and distinct memory. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly found in reputable sources. Predominantly used in news and media contexts to assert the accuracy of someone's memory, it serves to instill confidence in the details being recalled. While synonyms such as "vivid memory" and "distinct remembrance" exist, understanding the appropriate contexts for each helps in effective communication. Keep in mind that while it adds detail to your writing, overuse should be avoided. As exemplified by Ludwig, recognizing the nuances of "a clear recollection" and its related phrases enhances both clarity and precision in expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a vivid memory

Focuses on the intensity and clarity of the memory.

a distinct remembrance

Emphasizes the unique and easily identifiable nature of the memory.

a sharp recollection

Highlights the precision and detail of the memory.

a precise memory

Underscores the accuracy and exactness of the memory.

a detailed recollection

Stresses the comprehensive and thorough nature of the memory.

a good memory of

Uses simpler language to convey the ability to remember something well.

a photographic memory

Implies an extremely detailed and accurate memory, like a photograph.

a conscious memory

Stresses the awareness and deliberate recall of the memory.

a ready memory

Emphasizes the ease and speed with which the memory can be accessed.

an accurate memory

Highlights the correctness and reliability of the memory.

FAQs

How can I use "a clear recollection" in a sentence?

You can use "a clear recollection" to express that you remember something vividly and distinctly. For example: "I have "a clear recollection" of the day we first met."

What are some alternatives to "a clear recollection"?

Some alternatives to "a clear recollection" include "a vivid memory", "a distinct remembrance", or "a sharp recollection", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "a clear recollection" or "I remember clearly"?

"A clear recollection" is generally considered more formal than "I remember clearly". The former is often used in professional or academic contexts where precision and detail are important.

What does it mean to have "no clear recollection" of something?

To have "no clear recollection" of something means that you do not have a vivid or distinct memory of it. You might only remember fragments or nothing at all. It implies a lack of certainty about the event or information.