a distant memory

USAGE SUMMARY

"a distant memory" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to talk about something from the past that is no longer part of the present. For example, "The days of summer are now just a distant memory as winter fast approaches."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The summer will be a distant memory.

The New York Times

Those days are a distant memory.

The New York Times

My mind returned to a distant memory.

The New Yorker

The N.H.L. lockout seemed a distant memory.

The New York Times - Sports

That miracle now seems a distant memory.

The Economist

Street protests are a distant memory.

The Guardian - Sport

The drought seems a distant memory.

The New York Times

That beauty suddenly seemed a distant memory.

The New York Times

That's all a distant memory now.

The New York Times

Oceania seems a distant memory.

The Guardian - Sport

But it was not a distant memory.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a distant memory" to effectively contrast a past situation with the present, highlighting how things have changed over time.

Common error

Avoid using "a distant memory" when referring to events that occurred very recently. The phrase implies a significant passage of time that has diminished the impact or clarity of the event.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distant memory" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an appositive. It describes something that exists in the past and has become less significant or clear in the present. Ludwig's examples highlight its use in various contexts, illustrating its grammatical versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a distant memory" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe something from the past that is no longer easily recalled or relevant in the present. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and widely used in written English. Its frequency in news and media sources, as well as its presence in academic contexts, demonstrates its versatility. Understanding the nuances of its usage, as highlighted in the writing guidance, can help writers effectively convey the passage of time and the changes that occur as events fade from prominence. This phrase serves as a reminder that time moves on, and what once was significant can become "a distant memory".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a thing of the past

States directly that something is no longer current or relevant.

a blurred memory

Indicates that the details of the memory are unclear or indistinct.

a fading recollection

Emphasizes the gradual loss of clarity in the memory.

barely remembered

Highlights the difficulty in recalling the memory clearly.

a bygone era

Refers to a specific period in the past that is significantly different from the present.

a forgotten episode

Frames the memory as a single event that has been largely forgotten.

ancient history

Implies that the memory is very old and no longer relevant.

relegated to the past

Suggests that the memory has been consciously moved to the past and is no longer a focus.

water under the bridge

Suggests that the event is over and done with, and should not be dwelled upon.

consigned to oblivion

Implies that the memory has been completely forgotten and is unlikely to be recalled.

FAQs

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

You can use "a distant memory" to describe something that happened a long time ago and is no longer relevant or easily recalled. For instance, "The economic boom of the early 2000s is now "a distant memory" for many".

What are some alternatives to "a distant memory"?

Some alternatives include "a thing of the past", "ancient history", or "a fading recollection". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a distant memory" in formal writing?

Yes, "a distant memory" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a widely recognized and understood idiom that can add depth and color to your descriptions. Just ensure the context is fitting.

What's the difference between "a distant memory" and "a cherished memory"?

"A distant memory" refers to something from the past that is fading or no longer impactful, while "a cherished memory" refers to something from the past that is fondly remembered and valued. They have opposite connotations.