a memorial to

USAGE SUMMARY

"a memorial to" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe an object or place that serves as a remembrance or tribute to someone or something. It can also be used figuratively to describe something that is meant to honor or commemorate a person or event. Example: The statue in the park serves as a memorial to the brave soldiers who fought in the war. In this sentence, "a memorial to" is used to describe the statue as a tribute to the soldiers, serving as a remembrance of their bravery.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

A memorial to be held in June.

The New York Times

We want a memorial to acknowledge that".

The New York Times

It's like a memorial to lives lost.

The New York Times - Arts

"This building is a memorial to a famous era.

The New Yorker

Melbourne has a memorial to him: a municipal swimming pool.

Independent

This stone pillar was a memorial to Susumu, she said.

Independent

A memorial to be announced at a later date.

The New York Times

Someday, a memorial to their sacrifice may rise.

The New York Times

"It is a memorial to my husband and his legacy".

The New York Times - Arts

The event has been designated a memorial to the composer.

The New York Times - Arts

A memorial to dead journalists does not list their names.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about a memorial, be specific about what it commemorates and why it is significant. Providing context enhances the emotional impact and historical understanding for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "memory" when "memorial" is intended. A "memory" is a recollection, while a "memorial" is a tangible object or event created to remember someone or something. For example, say "The statue is a "memorial to" the fallen soldiers", not "The statue is a memory to the fallen soldiers".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a memorial to" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or appositive, typically describing what a physical structure, event, or gesture represents. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a memorial to" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression for indicating that something serves as a tribute or remembrance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's commonly found in news, encyclopedias, and wiki sources, suggesting a neutral to formal register. While alternatives like "a tribute to" or "in memory of" exist, the specific context will guide the best choice. Remember to use "a memorial to" when referring to a tangible object or event created for remembrance, and avoid confusing it with "memory". Overall, understanding the nuances of this phrase enhances clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in memory of

Directly expresses that something is done to honor the memory of someone.

a tribute to

Focuses on expressing admiration and respect, often in a formal setting.

a monument to

Implies a lasting, often physical, structure that commemorates someone or something significant.

a dedication to

Suggests setting something aside or apart in honor of someone or something.

in remembrance of

A more formal and reverent way of saying "in memory of".

in honor of

Emphasizes respect and esteem for the person or event being commemorated.

a commemoration of

Highlights the act of officially remembering and paying respect.

a remembrance of

Focuses on the act of remembering and cherishing the memory of someone or something.

a lasting legacy of

Emphasizes the enduring impact and influence of someone or something.

a symbol of

Represents something else, embodying its qualities or significance.

FAQs

How can I use "a memorial to" in a sentence?

Use "a memorial to" to indicate that something serves as a remembrance or tribute to a person, event, or idea. For example, "The new library is "a memorial to" the town's founder".

What are some alternatives to "a memorial to"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a tribute to", "a monument to", or "in memory of".

What is the difference between "a memorial to" and "in memory of"?

"A memorial to" typically refers to a physical object or place, like a statue or park, while "in memory of" is a phrase used to dedicate something in honor of someone who has passed away. You might build "a memorial to" a war, but dedicate a plaque "in memory of" a specific soldier.

Is it correct to say "a memorial for" instead of "a memorial to"?

While "a memorial for" isn't inherently incorrect, "a memorial to" is the more standard and widely accepted phrasing. "To" indicates the recipient or subject being honored, whereas "for" implies purpose or benefit, which isn't the primary intent of a memorial.