a small memory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small memory" is correct and usable in written English.
You might use this phrase in a sentence to describe a fleeting moment or a brief experience that left a lasting impression. For example, "The evening was filled with laughter and a small memory of joy that still lingers today."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

"Probably initially we'll build a small memory array or something like that," he said.

The New York Times

Even after the strokes, he was able to summon a small memory the last time I asked him about Williamsport.

The New York Times - Arts

Although there are wireless-enabled frames, most models read the photos from a small memory card inserted into the back of the device.

The New York Times

Skimmers contain a small memory chip that can usually hold 50 to 100 card numbers, and the skimmer operator usually gets a payment for each number obtained.

The New York Times - Tech

Brook Lopez emerged in the Nets' locker room with a slight bruise under his right eye, a small memory from a night he would rather soon forget.

The New York Times - Sports

To obtain the data it required, GM began fitting a small memory unit to the electronic module that triggers the airbags.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

PortalPlayer's setup includes both a hard disk and a smaller memory chip, which is actually the thing that's active when you're listening to music; songs are cleverly parceled into this from the hard disk in small groups, a scheme that keeps the energy-hog hard disk from wearing down the battery.

The New York Times - Magazine

Generally, fewer codevectors would lead to a smaller number of vector indices and a smaller memory requirements of each cumulative distribution function (cdf) model.

EURASIP Journal on Audio, Speech, and Music Processing

Process migration may take less time since a smaller memory volume may have to be transferred, but migrating entire VMs allows sets of processes to be transferred.

Journal of Cloud Computing

We identify the minimal subset of XPath that is needed, thus allowing matching programs to potentially use a smaller memory footprint.

Computer Networks

In addition, the lateral charge loss in this sample cannot be ignored because of the absence of discrete charge storage nodes, which generally gives rise to reduced charge storage with a smaller memory window.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing memory in technical contexts, consider quantifying it using units (e.g., "a small memory of 16KB") for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a small memory" when you mean a physically small memory device. Instead, specify "a memory chip with small capacity" or "a physically small memory card" to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small memory" functions as a noun phrase, where "small" modifies the noun "memory". It can describe the limited capacity of a device or the insignificance of a personal recollection. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a small memory" is grammatically sound and used to describe either a limited capacity in a device or an insignificant personal recollection. Ludwig AI validates the correctness of this phrase. While it is relatively rare, the phrase appears in reputable sources like The New York Times and scientific journals, indicating its acceptability across different writing styles. When using "a small memory", it is important to distinguish between its subjective (personal recollection) and objective (technical capacity) meanings to avoid confusion. Consider alternatives such as "fleeting memory" or "limited capacity" depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a trace memory

Suggests a residual or barely perceptible memory.

a fleeting memory

Emphasizes the brief and transient nature of the memory.

a select memory

Implies a chosen or carefully retained memory.

a faint recollection

Highlights the dim and unclear quality of the memory.

a dim awareness

Focuses on the lack of clarity and vividness of the memory.

a brief moment

Shifts the focus from the memory itself to the original instant in time.

a narrow memory

Indicates limited memory capacity.

a minor detail

Underlines the insignificance or unimportance of what is remembered.

a passing thought

Emphasizes the transient and insubstantial nature of the mental event.

a limited capacity

Refers to a physical or technical constraint on memory size.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small memory" to describe something minor or insignificant that you remember, or to refer to limited storage capacity in a device. For example: "The bruise was "a small memory" from a night he would rather soon forget".

What are some alternatives to "a small memory"?

Some alternatives include "a fleeting memory", "a faint recollection", or "a brief moment" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a small memory" versus "limited memory"?

"A small memory" is more appropriate when describing a minor personal recollection. "Limited memory" is better suited for discussing technical constraints or storage capacities.

What does it mean when a device has "a small memory footprint"?

It means the device or software requires minimal storage space. This is often desirable for efficiency and portability.