a poignant memory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a poignant memory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a memory that evokes strong emotions, often sadness or nostalgia. Example: "The photograph brought back a poignant memory of my childhood summers spent at my grandmother's house."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Two fairly recent ones, "Simply Disconnected" (a sequel to "Otherwise Engaged") and "The Late Middle Classes" (a poignant memory play inspired by his childhood), have never been staged in London.

The New York Times

During the Blitz, a V-1 buzz bomb damaged his family's home and obliterated a balsa-wood model that he had made, and which he treasured, of the battleship H.M.S. Nelson: a poignant memory that he recovered, he said, in psychoanalysis.

The New Yorker

As she closes her chapter in Los Angeles and leaves behind a poignant memory, she looks ahead to her next chapter in Nashville.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

What one night feels like a chore--how can I get this child into bed--twenty years later becomes a most poignant memory that can never unfold again.

Huffington Post

2. Let them know that you have a funny or poignant memory of a time that you spent together.

Huffington Post

Let us know if you have any poignant memories of listening to the decade-old jam in the comments section.

HuffPost

If you lived in a middle-class community in Chicago, children and adults came daily to the door saying, 'We are starving, how about a potato?' I speak from poignant memory".

The New York Times

My most poignant memory of Khadija is a recent one.

The Guardian

He has one poignant memory, though.

The New York Times

Yet the most poignant memory came afterwards when Xavi Hernández and Andrea Pirlo, two of the sport's authentic greats, embraced on the pitch, knowing it would be their last occasion for two clubs they have distinguished with their presence.

The Guardian - Sport

I have one poignant memory of him teaching me how to wash myself in the bathtub.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a poignant memory" to add emotional depth and resonance to your writing, particularly when describing personal experiences or reflections. This phrase signals to the reader that the memory holds significant emotional weight and is likely to evoke empathy or understanding.

Common error

While "a poignant memory" is effective, overuse can diminish its impact. Vary your language by using alternatives like "a touching recollection" or "a deeply moving memory" to keep your writing fresh and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a poignant memory" functions as a noun phrase, where "poignant" modifies the noun "memory." It describes a specific type of memory characterized by its emotional depth and ability to evoke strong feelings. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

17%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a poignant memory" is a grammatically sound and emotionally evocative phrase used to describe memories that stir deep feelings, often of sadness or nostalgia. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. It's most commonly found in news and media, as well as more formal contexts, though overuse should be avoided. Consider alternatives such as "a touching recollection" or "a deeply moving memory" to maintain freshness in your writing. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the tone and audience of your writing, enhancing the emotional impact of your narrative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A touching recollection

Emphasizes the emotional impact of the memory, highlighting its ability to evoke feelings of tenderness and empathy.

A deeply moving memory

Highlights the profound emotional effect the memory has on someone.

A bittersweet memory

Captures the mixed emotions of happiness and sadness associated with the memory.

A cherished memory

Focuses on the value and importance of the memory, emphasizing its treasured status.

An emotionally charged memory

Highlights the intense emotions linked to the memory.

A heartrending memory

Stresses the memory's capacity to cause grief or sorrow.

A memorable emotional experience

Shifts the focus from a memory to an experience, highlighting the event's emotional impact and lasting impression.

A sentimental memory

Emphasizes the nostalgic and affectionate feelings associated with the memory.

A tender memory

Highlights the gentleness and affection associated with the memory.

A significant emotional event

Emphasizes the importance and emotional weight of the event being remembered.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a poignant memory" in a sentence?

Use "a poignant memory" to describe a past event or experience that evokes strong emotions, often sadness, regret, or nostalgia. For example, "The old photograph brought back "a poignant memory" of her childhood home".

What are some alternatives to "a poignant memory" that I can use in my writing?

Alternatives include "a touching recollection", "a deeply moving memory", or "a bittersweet memory". The best choice depends on the specific emotion you want to convey.

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

Yes, "a poignant memory" can be used in formal writing, especially when reflecting on personal experiences or historical events. However, consider your audience and the overall tone of your piece to ensure it fits appropriately.

What makes a memory "poignant"?

A memory is considered "poignant" when it evokes a mix of emotions, often including sadness, tenderness, and nostalgia. It typically involves a sense of loss or longing for something that is gone or has changed.