back in memory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "back in memory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to recalling or remembering something from the past. Example: "As I looked through the old photo album, memories of my childhood came flooding back in memory."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

They transport me back in memory more than any madeleine.

The New Yorker

It also describes how older people go back in memory and impose narrative order on choices that didn't seem so clear at the time.

The New York Times

This grim leave-taking caused us to flit back in memory, to the world history we knew as a high-school student.

The New Yorker

While living in exile, however, Zhang found himself circling back in memory to the places and experiences of his own past.

The New York Times - Books

When Paul Sturgis lies down at night in the hope of sleep, he walks back in memory to his childhood house.

The Guardian - Books

This grim leave-taking caused us to flit back in memory, to the world history we knew as a high-school student..

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

"I didn't go back out in memory of my dad, though, I did it because I wanted to race," William, who was 22 at the time, tells BBC Sport.

BBC

That's the still unlearnt lesson of so many marches far back in my memory.

The Guardian - Opinion

When she was taken in the Red Cross Hospital she told how her friends died, tracing back in her memory to singing in chorus our national anthem.

The New Yorker

The recent hot weather here in Cambridge has sent me back in my memory to Avalon, one of Sydney's northern beaches.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"When I reached back in my memory for material for the book, the first thing that came was the experience of playing second flute in it at Yale".

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "back in memory" when you want to emphasize the act of recalling something that is somewhat distant or not immediately obvious. It adds a reflective quality to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "back in memory" when you mean "in memory of", which is used to honor someone who has died. "Back in memory" is about recalling past experiences, while "in memory of" is a tribute.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "back in memory" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the direction or context of thought. It specifies that the action of recalling or thinking is oriented toward the past, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

17%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "back in memory" serves as a descriptive marker indicating a turn towards the past in thought. As confirmed by Ludwig, this prepositional phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for expressing recollection or reminiscence. While maintaining a neutral register, it finds frequent usage in news, media, and academic contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure it is not confused with "in memory of", which bears a different meaning. Remembering these distinctions allows for precise and effective communication when referring to past experiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

revisiting memories

Suggests a deliberate return to past experiences.

recalling past events

Directly refers to bringing memories to mind.

thinking back

Similar to looking back, but can imply a more internal process.

looking back

Emphasizes the act of reviewing past events from a present perspective.

reminiscing

A single word that encapsulates the act of recalling pleasant past experiences.

reflecting on the past

Focuses on thoughtful consideration of past events.

in retrospect

Highlights understanding gained from a past event.

remembering bygone days

Evokes a sense of nostalgia for earlier times.

traveling back in time mentally

A more figurative way of describing remembering.

dwelling on the past

Implies focusing on the past, sometimes excessively.

FAQs

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

You can use "back in memory" to describe the act of recalling past experiences or events. For example, "As I listened to that old song, I traveled "back in memory" to my childhood."

What's a good substitute for "back in memory"?

Alternatives include "recalling past events", "thinking back", or "revisiting memories", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "back in my memory" instead of "back in memory"?

While "back in my memory" is grammatically correct, "back in memory" is more concise and idiomatic. The use of the possessive pronoun "my" isn't always necessary and can sometimes sound redundant.

What is the difference between "back in memory" and "in memory of"?

"Back in memory" refers to the act of remembering something from the past. "In memory of", on the other hand, is used to honor someone who has died. They have completely different meanings and should not be confused.