a fond memory

USAGE SUMMARY

"a fond memory" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You could use it to illustrate an emotion of nostalgia or sentimental attachment to a past experience. For example: "The smell of the campfire reminded me of a fond memory from summers past."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His political honeymoon is no more than a fond memory.

The Economist

"It was historic and a fond memory," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

The article on WPRB triggered a fond memory.

Princeton University

"Now it's become sort of a fond memory".

The New Yorker

"A fond memory is the first time I worked away, up in Chelmsford it was.

Independent

As Steve Jobs resigns as Apple's chief executive, here's a fond memory.

The New York Times

"People like it now - they have a fond memory of it.

Independent

"Everything that happened before this point is like a fond memory," Ferguson said.

The New York Times - Sports

Kelli has a fond memory of her son coming home with what he'd shot.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I look at it as a fond memory of playing in the World Series.

The New York Times - Sports

For them, rockabilly was not just a fond memory but a continuing insurrection.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a fond memory" to express a positive emotional connection to a past event or period. Ensure the context makes it clear why the memory is considered 'fond'.

Common error

While "a fond memory" is a common expression, avoid overusing it in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "cherished memory" or describing the memory in detail to evoke the sentiment directly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a fond memory" functions primarily as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or object. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. In examples such as "It remains a fond memory for Mark," the phrase renames or describes the subject.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Academia

8%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a fond memory" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express positive emotions connected to past events. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted and understood in English writing. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts, indicating a neutral to slightly informal register. For alternative expressions, consider using "cherished memory" or "treasured recollection" to add nuance. Remember to use the phrase intentionally to convey affection and nostalgia effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cherished memory

Emphasizes the value and importance of the memory.

treasured recollection

Highlights the act of remembering and its precious nature.

happy memory

Focuses specifically on the positive emotional aspect of the memory.

pleasant remembrance

Stresses the enjoyable and agreeable quality of the memory.

special memory

Indicates the unique and significant nature of the memory.

nostalgic recollection

Highlights a sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past.

well-remembered time

Focuses on the experience and how well it's remembered.

precious memory

Highlights the irreplaceability and value of the memory

golden memory

Golden is a metaphor for a 'good' memory of high value.

a time to remember

Similar in sentiment but structurally different, referring to an event worthy of remembering.

FAQs

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

You can use "a fond memory" to describe past events or experiences that bring you joy or happiness. For example, "Visiting my grandparents' farm is "a fond memory" from my childhood".

What are some alternatives to "a fond memory"?

Alternatives include "cherished memory", "treasured recollection", or "happy memory". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a fond memory" or "a fond memories"?

The singular form, "a fond memory", refers to a single, specific event. The plural form, "fond memories", refers to multiple instances. Therefore, "a fond memory" is correct when referring to one specific memory.

What makes "a fond memory" different from just "a memory"?

The adjective "fond" indicates a positive emotional connection to the memory. Simply saying "a memory" is neutral, while "a fond memory" suggests affection, pleasure, or nostalgia associated with the past event.