diffuse memory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "diffuse memory" is not commonly used in written English and may not convey a clear meaning.
It could be used in contexts discussing the spread or distribution of memory, perhaps in a metaphorical sense, but clarity may be lacking. Example: "The concept of diffuse memory suggests that our recollections are not stored in isolated pockets but rather spread throughout our cognitive landscape."

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The thriving, pre-Hitler German-Jewish community has left "a diffuse and attenuated memory" in contemporary Germans, though mansions and department stores once owned by Jews still stand.

The New Yorker

The narrative moves from Iraq and Germany to Virginia and Kentucky, and from during the war to before and after; its structure is as diffuse as the shattered memory of its narrator, a veteran.

The New Yorker

To ensure the local diffuse information share, we used shared memory arrays.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Chronic fatigue syndrome presents clinically as incapacitating physical and mental fatigue, frequently accompanied by unrefreshing sleep, impaired memory and concentration, and diffuse musculoskeletal pain [ 1].

Behavioral and Brain Functions

It involves the diffuse aftermath: investigation, fury, legal proceedings, recovered memories, protest groups, healing and remorse.

The New York Times - Books

Their distinctive feature is that data diffuses, or migrates and replicates, in main memory according to whichever processors are using the data.

Parallel Computing

In the present study, we tested whether PNN digestion can restore memory in the presence of the diffuse lesion produced by tau pathology.

Experimental Neurology

Rather, different regions and a more diffuse network seem to be engaged during spatial working memory maintenance in schizophrenia.

Plosone

While the extent of diffuse brain damage is roughly related to the severity of memory defect, the principle of mass action is manifestly inadequate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Poor performance on most of the neuropsychological tests indicated a diffuse impairment including attention, executive functions, visuospatial functions, comprehension and memory.

Behavioral and Brain Functions

As I puzzled over her reluctance to evoke that triumphant moment, I found myself recalling her sister's reason for not divulging childhood memories: that in giving them away, she would diffuse their private power.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "diffuse memory", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you mean a memory that is widespread, lacking clear focus, or generally weakened. Providing additional descriptive details can enhance clarity.

Common error

Do not use "diffuse memory" when you mean a memory that is simply forgotten or repressed. "Diffuse" implies a spreading or lack of clear boundaries, not necessarily a complete absence of memory.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "diffuse memory" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "diffuse" modifies the noun "memory". It suggests a memory that lacks clear boundaries or is spread out, rather than sharply defined. As Ludwig AI notes, the meaning is not always immediately clear and requires context.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "diffuse memory" refers to a memory that is not well-defined, widespread, or weakened. While grammatically acceptable, Ludwig AI indicates it's not commonly used, requiring careful contextualization for clarity. Alternatives like "vague memory" or "scattered recollection" may offer better clarity in certain situations. The phrase tends to appear in news, scientific, and encyclopedia sources, suggesting a formal or neutral register. When employing "diffuse memory", ensure you're conveying the intended sense of indistinctness or widespread influence rather than simple forgetting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

scattered recollection

Replaces "memory" with "recollection" and "diffuse" with "scattered", emphasizing the dispersed nature of the memory.

vague memory

Substitutes "diffuse" with "vague", highlighting the lack of clarity in the memory.

tenuous remembrance

Replaces "memory" with "remembrance" and "diffuse" with "tenuous", indicating a weak or uncertain memory.

blurred memory

Emphasizes the lack of clarity by using "blurred" instead of "diffuse".

faded memory

Focuses on the weakening of the memory over time.

fragmented memory

Highlights the incomplete and broken nature of the memory.

imprecise memory

Indicates a lack of exactness in the memory.

hazy memory

Similar to "blurred", this emphasizes the lack of clarity and distinctness.

indistinct memory

Focuses on the lack of clear definition or outline in the memory.

attenuated memory

Replaces "diffuse" with "attenuated", indicating a weakened or diminished memory.

FAQs

What does "diffuse memory" mean?

"Diffuse memory" typically refers to a memory that is not clearly defined, is widespread, or lacks a specific focus. It can also imply a weakened or attenuated memory, as seen in some contexts.

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

You might say, "The pre-war era left a "diffuse memory" in the minds of the younger generation" or "The trauma resulted in a "diffuse memory" of the event, making it difficult to recall specific details".

What are some alternatives to "diffuse memory"?

Alternatives include "scattered recollection", "vague memory", or "blurred memory", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "diffuse memory" a common phrase?

No, "diffuse memory" is not a particularly common phrase. It is used, but less frequently than alternatives like "vague memory" or "faded memory".