become a distant memory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "become a distant memory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a nostalgic feeling about the past, or the idea that something good is gone and will be remembered fondly. Example: "The days spent in the summer house have now become a distant memory."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

So we thought, "why not pour all of our attention, buy-in and investment into "Plan B" and just let "Plan A" become a distant memory; a childhood fantasy?" It seemed like a solid way to go, right?

HuffPost

Exploding bombs and whizzing bullets become a distant memory.

The Guardian

The 1989 killings in Beijing have become a distant memory.

The Economist

The confidence and momentum built from 21 magical days in January have become a distant memory.

The New York Times - Sports

A decade hence, that triumph in the Persian Gulf has become a distant memory.

The New York Times

Men's long-standing role in the household had become a distant memory.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Let's hope it helps waiting until spring to get paid to become a distant memory.

The Guardian

Will the untimely, exceedingly messy demise of Ralph Cifaretto, his "Sopranos" character, finally become a distant memory?

The New York Times

Late-night parties and early morning screenings mean that sleep has become a distant memory and coffee a dear friend.

The Guardian - Film

Although I am not poor, luxuries that I could afford easily before have become a distant memory.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

So enjoy before summer sun finally becomes a distant memory.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the emotional tone: the phrase can convey nostalgia, relief, or regret depending on the context.

Common error

Avoid using "become a distant memory" when you mean to describe something intentionally suppressed or actively forgotten. This phrase is better suited for naturally fading memories.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "become a distant memory" functions as a predicate, describing the state of a noun (thing, event, person) fading from current awareness and significance. It is often used to depict the passage of time and the softening of impact, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Academia

7%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Science

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "become a distant memory" effectively describes the fading of something from current awareness, carrying a nuanced sense of time and change. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in both formal and informal contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, this expression serves to convey nostalgia, relief, or historical perspective. When writing, remember that this phrase is about natural fading and isn't best used for events that have been intentionally suppressed. Consider alternative phrases, such as "fade into obscurity" or "recede into the past", to fine-tune the expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

become a thing of the past

Indicates that something is no longer relevant or current.

be forgotten over time

Highlights the gradual process of being forgotten.

recede into the past

Highlights the movement of something into a more remote time.

lose its significance

Focuses on the decrease in importance of something.

grow fainter with time

Highlights the gradual fading of something's intensity.

fade into obscurity

Emphasizes the gradual loss of prominence or recognition.

evaporate from memory

Emphasizes the gradual disappearance from memory.

slip from consciousness

Focuses on the mental aspect of forgetting something.

be lost to history

Indicates something is no longer recorded or remembered.

be consigned to oblivion

Suggests a complete and irreversible forgetting.

FAQs

How can I use "become a distant memory" in a sentence?

You can use "become a distant memory" to describe something that is fading from importance or recollection. For example, "The challenges of the project will soon "become a distant memory" once it's completed."

What are some alternatives to "become a distant memory"?

Alternatives include "fade into obscurity", "recede into the past", or "slip from consciousness". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "become a distant memory" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing historical trends, societal changes, or personal reflections. However, consider the specific tone and context to ensure it aligns with the overall formality of the piece.

What's the difference between "become a distant memory" and "be forgotten"?

"Become a distant memory" suggests a gradual fading and a sense of nostalgia, while "be forgotten" implies a more complete and immediate loss of remembrance. The former often carries a slightly softer emotional tone.