be in memory of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be in memory of" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to honor or commemorate someone who has passed away or to acknowledge their legacy. Example: "The park was established to be in memory of those who lost their lives in the tragedy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Perhaps it ought to be, in memory of Cloetta.

The Guardian - Books

"I wanted this film to be in memory of them, because they seem to have been forgotten," he told Time.

The Guardian

The yew will be in memory of Robert Hardy, actor, friend and expert in longbows – which, of course, are made of yew.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"I wanted this film to be in memory of [the Israeli athletes] because they seem to have been forgotten," he told Time.

The Guardian

On Sept. 9, the school's opening Mass for the school year will be in memory of the victims of 9/11.

The New York Times

The event will be in memory of Doctor Who actress Elisabeth Sladen who played much-loved companion Sarah-Jane Smith. Sarah-Jane Smith

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

This memorial is in memory of the old RAF base in Thornaby which is now a residential estate.

Wikipedia

Please state the gift is in memory of Charles Freed.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Please indicate that your gift is in memory of Stephen H. Crandall.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The words were in memory of a friend.

The New York Times - Sports

His lecture was in memory of Bridget Lindley of the Family Rights Group who died last year.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be in memory of", ensure the context clearly indicates what or whom is being honored. Specify the name or event directly following the phrase for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "be in memory of" when the subject is still living. This phrase is specifically for commemorating those who have passed away. Use "in honor of" for living individuals.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be in memory of" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces the purpose of an action or creation as a tribute to someone or something. It indicates that an act is performed to honor or remember a person, event, or idea. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

35%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be in memory of" serves as a heartfelt way to commemorate individuals or events, predominantly those no longer living. As Ludwig AI explains, it is grammatically correct and functions as a prepositional phrase. While versatile, it is crucial to ensure its application aligns with its purpose: to honor those who have passed. Its register ranges from neutral to formal, fitting various commemorative contexts. Alternatives such as "in remembrance of" or "in honor of" offer subtle nuances, and understanding these variations enhances the precision and impact of memorial expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In remembrance of

Emphasizes the act of remembering, focusing on personal recollection.

In honor of

Highlights respect and admiration, suitable for living or deceased subjects.

Dedicated to

Implies a formal and lasting tribute, often used for monuments or artworks.

In tribute to

Similar to "in honor of" but suggests a more elaborate or public display of respect.

Commemorating

Focuses on the act of marking an event or person with a ceremony or memorial.

To the memory of

A more formal and traditional phrasing, often found on plaques or inscriptions.

Remembering

A simpler and more direct way to express remembrance.

In commemoration of

A more formal alternative, stressing the official marking of an event or person.

As a memorial to

Highlights the creation of a memorial as the primary act of remembrance.

Honoring the legacy of

Focuses on the lasting impact and contributions of the person being remembered.

FAQs

How do I use "be in memory of" in a sentence?

You can use "be in memory of" to dedicate something to someone who has passed away. For example, "This scholarship will "be in memory of" Dr. Smith, who dedicated his life to education".

What's a good alternative to "be in memory of"?

Alternatives include "in honor of", "in remembrance of", or "dedicated to", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey. Each carries a slightly different connotation.

Is it appropriate to use "be in memory of" for events as well as people?

While primarily used for people, "be in memory of" can also apply to significant events. For instance, "The ceremony will "be in memory of" the victims of the 9/11 attacks".

What's the difference between "be in memory of" and "in honor of"?

"Be in memory of" is specifically for someone who has died, while "in honor of" can be used for both living and deceased individuals to celebrate their achievements or contributions.