as we recall

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as we recall" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a shared memory or collective understanding of a past event or information. Example: "As we recall, the meeting last month highlighted several key issues that need to be addressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Tommen loves the marriage bed, as we recall.

The New Yorker

As we recall, she mentioned this brood earlier, in the first paragraph of the novel.

The New Yorker

All of a sudden, they vanished - giving way as we recall, to the Scottie.

The New Yorker

This resonates even more strongly as we recall that country relationships became even more important during the 1930s.

Harvard Business Review

We both laugh as we recall the film's funniest moment, when Paul tells an interviewer in 1964, "Culture?

The Guardian - Music

This implied harmony can be thought of as the emotional ambience that surrounds the tune as we recall it.

The New York Times

We can't remember how much it was then, but as we recall it was money well spent.

The Guardian - Travel

As we recall, this trick did not work out so well in the case of William Burroughs.

The New Yorker

As we recall from bitter memory, the Hubble and the space station are in vastly different orbits.

The New York Times - Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Ah, but the food was as ambrosial as we recalled.

The New York Times

As we recalled the fervor of our argument, the curator and I smiled nostalgically.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ "as we recall" to introduce historical background or context, particularly when building upon established knowledge.

Common error

Avoid using "as we recall" excessively in very formal or academic writing; consider more precise alternatives like "as previously discussed" or "in light of the aforementioned evidence" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as we recall" primarily functions as an introductory phrase that sets the stage for a reminder or recollection. As Ludwig AI confirms, it correctly prefaces a shared memory or understanding, enhancing narrative flow.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as we recall" serves as a useful introductory phrase for refreshing shared memories or referencing previously discussed information. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability across numerous contexts. While predominantly found in news and media, it is also present in scientific and formal business writing, albeit with considerations for stylistic variation to maintain formality. Remembering these nuances allows for effective communication and audience engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as we remember

This alternative directly substitutes "recall" with "remember", offering a more common and slightly less formal way to express the same idea.

if I remember correctly

This phrase introduces a degree of uncertainty or tentativeness about the recollection, suitable when the speaker isn't entirely sure.

as far as I can remember

Similar to "if I remember correctly", this phrase acknowledges the potential fallibility of memory.

to the best of my recollection

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the limits of one's memory, suggesting a sincere but possibly imperfect recall.

if my memory serves me right

This idiom personifies memory, adding a touch of color and implying that the recollection is likely accurate.

as previously mentioned

This alternative focuses on reiterating something already stated, rather than recalling a shared memory or understanding.

returning to the point

This phrase signals a return to a previous topic, often after a digression, rather than emphasizing the act of remembering.

to refresh your memory

This phrase is used when reminding someone else of something they may have forgotten.

by way of reminder

Similar to "to refresh your memory", this serves to prompt the listener or reader to remember something.

looking back

This is a general phrase indicating a reflection on past events, without necessarily implying a shared recollection.

FAQs

How can I use "as we recall" in a sentence?

You can use "as we recall" to refer back to a shared memory or a previously mentioned point. For example, "As we recall, the budget was approved last quarter."

What phrases are similar to "as we recall"?

Similar phrases include "as we remember", "if I remember correctly", or "to the best of my recollection". The choice depends on the context and the degree of certainty you want to convey.

Is "as we recall" formal or informal?

"As we recall" is generally neutral, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal writing, consider more precise alternatives to maintain a professional tone.

When should I avoid using "as we recall"?

Avoid using "as we recall" when introducing completely new information or when the audience is unlikely to share the same memory or understanding. In such cases, provide more explicit context.