dim memory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dim memory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a vague or unclear recollection of something from the past. Example: "As I tried to recall the details of that summer, all I had was a dim memory of the events that took place."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A dim memory stirs.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

That seems a dim memory now.

The New York Times

Yangon's vibrant culture is a dim memory.

The New York Times

But poverty is but a dim memory today.

The New York Times

Youth is a dim memory, pointless to recall.

The Guardian - Books

Today the crisis is a dim memory, and America's economy is the world's envy.

The New York Times

The boy is restored to his uncle's loving care, with Clara only a dim memory.

The New York Times - Arts

I have a dim memory from somewhere that a duel is involved.

The Guardian - Books

The rustic picnic basket is a dim memory at this belle époque extravaganza.

The New York Times

Like the rotary phone and the thimble, the homemade Halloween costume is becoming a dim memory.

The New York Times

The even-handedness of Birgitte's first season trip to Greenland seemed a dim memory.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity in your writing, follow the use of the phrase "dim memory" with specific details that you do recall. This helps the reader understand what aspects of the memory remain.

Common error

Avoid using "dim memory" when the recollection is actually quite clear. Reserve it for situations where the details are genuinely vague or uncertain.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dim memory" functions as a noun phrase, where "dim" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "memory". As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Examples in Ludwig show it describing recollections that are unclear or fading.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dim memory" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes an unclear or vague recollection. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Analysis of its usage across various sources reveals its common occurrence in news, academic writing, and business communication. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure it accurately reflects the uncertainty surrounding the memory being described. Remember to avoid overstating the clarity of a "dim memory". If you want to explore alternatives, consider phrases like "vague recollection" or "faint memory".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

vague recollection

Focuses on the lack of clarity in the memory.

faint memory

Emphasizes the weakness or insubstantial nature of the memory.

hazy memory

Highlights the obscured or unclear quality of the memory.

distant memory

Stresses the remoteness in time of the memory.

receding memory

Indicates that the memory is fading or becoming less accessible.

blurred recollection

Implies a lack of sharp detail in the memory.

shadowy memory

Suggests the memory is unclear and indistinct, like a shadow.

fleeting memory

Emphasizes the brief or transient nature of the memory.

imperfect recall

Highlights the incomplete or flawed nature of remembering something.

fragmentary memory

Indicates that the memory exists only in broken or incomplete pieces.

FAQs

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

You can use "dim memory" to describe a vague or unclear recollection of something from the past. For example, "As I tried to recall the details of that summer, all I had was a "dim memory" of the events that took place."

What are some alternatives to "dim memory"?

Alternatives to "dim memory" include "vague recollection", "faint memory", or "hazy memory". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "dim memory" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. It is a common and well-understood phrase.

What's the difference between "dim memory" and "distant memory"?

While both phrases refer to recollections from the past, "dim memory" emphasizes the lack of clarity or detail in the memory, whereas "distant memory" emphasizes the remoteness in time.