childhood memory

USAGE SUMMARY

"childhood memory" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when discussing the memories of a person's childhood or to refer to a specific memory from childhood. For example, "My childhood memory of climbing a tree still brings a smile to my face."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's a magical childhood memory.

The New York Times

"Childhood memory," he says.

The New York Times

RECAPTURING a childhood memory is nearly impossible.

The New York Times - Food

Cambodia was a dim childhood memory.

The New York Times

So my childhood memory was pretty close.

Yale University

It's a childhood memory that remains strong.

The New York Times - Books

But in my childhood memory, it's a monster.

The Washington Post

Elizabeth has a childhood memory of Halloween in Dover, Massachusetts.

The New Yorker

No, the mayor was just replaying a childhood memory.

The New York Times

Favorite childhood memory: "Playing baseball with my dad".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Rauch describes an early-childhood memory of his mother trying to drown him "a couple times".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about a "childhood memory", try to incorporate sensory details to make the memory more vivid for the reader. What did you see, hear, smell, taste, or touch?

Common error

Avoid presenting a "childhood memory" as an objective truth. Memories are often subjective and can be influenced by emotions or time. Acknowledge the personal nature of the memory.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "childhood memory" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. It refers to a specific recollection or remembrance from one's early years. Ludwig examples show its use in various narrative and descriptive contexts, reinforcing its role in conveying personal experiences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Academia

16%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "childhood memory" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that serves to describe recollections from one's early years. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct for use in written English. Predominantly found in "News & Media" and "Academia", it carries a neutral register, making it suitable for diverse writing styles. When employing this phrase, focusing on sensory details can significantly enhance the reader's experience. While generally appropriate, it's crucial to ensure that "childhood memories" are presented as subjective accounts rather than objective truths. Consider using alternatives like "early recollection" or "memory from youth" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

recollection from childhood

Reorders the words slightly while preserving the meaning of a memory originating in childhood.

early memory

Shortens the phrase but maintains the essential idea of a recollection from an early period.

memory from youth

Directly replaces "childhood" with "youth", keeping the core meaning intact.

early recollection

Focuses on the time frame and act of remembering, similar to recalling something from an early age.

youthful reminiscence

Highlights a nostalgic reflection on experiences from one's younger years.

vivid childhood recollection

Adds emphasis on the clarity and detail of the memory.

formative experience

Emphasizes how a specific event or period shaped a person during their childhood.

cherished childhood moment

Shifts the focus to a specific, treasured event from childhood.

first memory

Implies the earliest memory a person can recall, originating from childhood.

growing-up remembrance

Uses more descriptive language to refer to a memory from the period of growing up.

FAQs

How can I effectively describe a "childhood memory" in writing?

Focus on sensory details and emotions. Use vivid language to recreate the experience for your reader. Consider including specific details that made the memory significant.

What are some alternative phrases for "childhood memory"?

You can use alternatives like "early recollection", "memory from youth", or "formative experience" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "childhood memory" in formal writing?

Yes, "childhood memory" is appropriate in both formal and informal writing. The suitability depends more on the overall tone and subject matter than the phrase itself.

How does a "childhood memory" differ from a regular memory?

A "childhood memory" specifically refers to a memory originating from one's childhood, whereas a regular memory can be from any point in life. The term highlights the developmental stage in which the memory was formed.