a memory stick

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a memory stick" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a portable storage device used to store and transfer data. Example: "I saved all my important documents on a memory stick before the presentation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

He has a memory stick in his pocket.

The Economist

ATHENS — Can a memory stick bring down a political order?

The New York Times

Oh for a whistleblower with a memory stick.

The Guardian

This could be sent remotely, or carried with the patient and transferred via a memory stick.

The Economist

I have a memory stick in every drawer and one on my keyring.

The Guardian - Books

The theft follows the loss of a memory stick belonging to Greater Manchester in September 2010.

The Guardian

The man removes a memory stick from the device and uploads the data for processing.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

4 If you're using a computer, always safeguard new text with a ­memory stick.

The Guardian - Books

MinION is a memory stick sized nanopore-based sequencer designed primarily for single-molecule sequencing of long DNA fragments (>6 kb).

Genetics

As one participant indicated: "As soon as I finish with a report I put it in a [memory] stick".

Health Research Policy and Systems

The Lexar JumpDrive Lightning pendant is a memory stick that can be worn as a necklace.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the term "a memory stick", consider your audience. In more formal or technical contexts, "USB flash drive" or "thumb drive" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Ensure your audience understands what you mean by "memory stick". While widely used, some people may not be familiar with the term, particularly if they are not technologically savvy. Providing additional context, such as "a small, portable storage device", can help.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a memory stick" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying a specific type of portable storage device. Ludwig examples show it used to describe storing data, transferring files, and even sneaking viruses into secure networks.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Tech

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a memory stick" is a common and generally accepted term for a portable data storage device, as confirmed by Ludwig. While more technical terms like "USB flash drive" exist, "a memory stick" is widely understood and used across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and technology discussions. When writing, consider your audience and the level of formality required; however, in most cases, "a memory stick" is a perfectly acceptable and clear choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a USB drive

Refers to the same device type, using the common interface abbreviation.

a thumb drive

A colloquial term for a USB flash drive, emphasizing its small size.

a flash drive

Highlights the flash memory technology used in the device.

a jump drive

Another common name to define a portable storage device.

a USB storage device

Specifies that the storage device uses a USB connection.

an external storage device

A broader term that includes memory sticks as one type of portable storage.

a memory card

A similar storage medium, often used in cameras and mobile devices.

a portable data carrier

A more formal term for a device that carries data between systems.

a portable hard drive

Another type of external storage, typically with larger capacity and different technology.

a data storage device

A general term encompassing any device used for storing data.

FAQs

What is another name for "a memory stick"?

Other common names for "a memory stick" include "USB drive", "thumb drive", and "flash drive". These terms are often used interchangeably.

How do I use "a memory stick" to transfer files?

To transfer files using "a memory stick", simply plug it into a USB port on your computer. The computer should recognize it as a removable drive, allowing you to drag and drop files to and from the stick.

Is "a memory stick" the same as a memory card?

While both are used for storage, "a memory stick" (typically a USB drive) connects directly to a USB port, whereas a memory card (like an SD card) is smaller and requires a card reader to connect to a computer.

What is the storage capacity of "a memory stick"?

The storage capacity of "a memory stick" can vary widely, ranging from a few gigabytes to several terabytes, depending on the specific model.