bring back memory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bring back memory" is correct and usable in written English.
You can typically use it when referring to a thought, experience, or moment that has some sort of personal significance or meaning. For example: "His favorite song always brings back memories of that summer we spent together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But can environmental changes bring back memory?

The New York Times

She sings this song plaintively in the film, as if to ruminate on the effects of trauma and its ability to obliterate, to silence, and then quickly bring back memory.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"It certainly will bring back memories.

Independent

"Something to bring back memories".

The New York Times

They also bring back memories of traditions from my childhood.

The New Yorker

It will bring back memories of Cub Scout pinewood racing.

The New Yorker

Perhaps this will bring back memories of 1987.

The New York Times

Their reasons for barring women from ordination bring back memories of my childhood in Louisiana.

The New York Times

Does this bring back memories for you?

BBC

Hopefully I can bring back memories of that.

BBC

"It's very good for me to bring back memories of Ayrton in people.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While grammatically sound, consider using the more common and idiomatic phrase "bring back memories" for a more natural and impactful expression. Context is everything.

Common error

Avoid using the singular form of "memory" when referring to multiple recollections or a general sense of nostalgia. "Bring back memories" is often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bring back memory" functions as a verb phrase that describes the action of causing a past recollection to come to mind. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct but rare. It is mostly used in contexts where a specific memory is triggered.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

33%

Academia

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while grammatically correct, the phrase "bring back memory" is much less common than "bring back memories". According to Ludwig AI, it is usable in written English, particularly when referring to a singular, specific recollection. However, using the plural form is often more natural and idiomatic. The phrase appears in various contexts, including news and media. Consider opting for "bring back memories" or alternatives like "evoke a memory" for broader, more impactful usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

evoke a memory

This option uses "evoke" to suggest that something triggers a memory, bringing it to mind.

trigger a memory

Similar to "evoke", but this explicitly suggests that something acts as a stimulus for recalling a specific memory.

rekindle a memory

Like "revive", this emphasizes the idea of reigniting a fading or dormant memory.

revive a memory

This alternative uses "revive" to emphasize the act of bringing a memory back to life or consciousness.

recapture a memory

This emphasizes the effort to regain a clear or vivid memory.

call forth a memory

This phrase gives a sense of actively summoning or conjuring a memory from the past.

stir up a memory

Indicates that something has caused a memory to surface, often unexpectedly.

conjure up a memory

This implies a more imaginative or creative act of bringing a memory to mind.

resurrect a memory

Suggests bringing back a memory that was long forgotten or buried.

unlock a memory

Suggests accessing a memory that was previously inaccessible or blocked.

FAQs

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

You can use "bring back memory" to describe something that makes you recall a past event or experience. However, it's often more natural to use the plural form "bring back memories". For example, "That song always "brings back memories" of my childhood."

What's the difference between "bring back memory" and "bring back memories"?

"Bring back memory" refers to a single, specific recollection, while "bring back memories" refers to multiple recollections or a general feeling of nostalgia. The plural form is far more common.

Are there alternatives to "bring back memory" that sound more natural?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "evoke a memory", "trigger a memory", or the more common phrase "bring back memories" depending on the context.

Is "bring back memory" grammatically incorrect?

No, "bring back memory" isn't grammatically incorrect, but its usage is rare compared to "bring back memories". The plural form is generally preferred and sounds more idiomatic.