elicit memory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "elicit memory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of drawing out or invoking a memory, often in psychological or educational contexts. Example: "The therapist used various techniques to elicit memory from the patient, helping them to recall important events from their past."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

EF-Tu was recently shown to elicit memory CD4+ T cells in cattle immunized with outer membrane protein preparations of the rickettsial pathogen, Anaplasma marginale [51].

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

In guidelines issued three years ago, the college stated that psychiatrists should never use forceful or persuasive interviewing to elicit memories.

The New York Times - Health

Probe one of those illuminated faces further, and you can also usually elicit memories of a particularly bad teacher.

The New York Times - Magazine

For some, Chile's appearance at Wembley will elicit memories of 1998, when the brilliant forward Marcelo Salas befuddled England's back four in a shock 2-0 victory.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Songs also elicit memories in our lives.

Huffington Post

In Proustian fashion, the sensations on the roof terrace elicit memories of my younger self.

Huffington Post

Meaningful life events also elicit memories, expectations, and disappointments, says Myrna Weissman, chief of the division of epidemiology at New York State Psychiatric Institute.

Vice

This conclusion critically relies on the untested assumption that reminders of a crime uncontrollably elicit memory-related brain activity.

Biological Psychology

Moreover, ERPs to these powerful cues were compared with ERPs to previously unseen control items, unlikely to elicit memory-related brain activity.

Biological Psychology

No research has examined whether retrieval-related brain activity can be intentionally suppressed for objects or events directly named by the reminder itself, in particular when comparing these potent cues to novel control cues that are unlikely to elicit memory-related brain activity.

Biological Psychology

Prompts used to elicit memories of care experienced in the hospital included, "When thinking back on your stay at the postpartum ward, what do you remember about those days?

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "elicit memory", consider the context to ensure it accurately conveys the intended meaning. It's particularly effective when describing the process of drawing out or prompting specific memories, especially in research or therapeutic settings.

Common error

Avoid using "elicit memory" when you mean to convey the idea of creating or falsely implanting a memory. "Elicit" implies drawing out an existing memory, while "implant" suggests introducing a false one. Be precise in your word choice to maintain ethical and factual accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "elicit memory" functions as a verb phrase where "elicit" acts as a transitive verb taking "memory" as its direct object. Its primary grammatical function is to describe the action of drawing out or evoking a memory.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "elicit memory" is grammatically correct and used to describe the act of drawing out or prompting a memory. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English. While more frequent in scientific and news-related contexts, it maintains a neutral register. When employing this phrase, be aware of its specific connotation—drawing out an existing memory—and avoid confusion with concepts like "implanting" false memories. Consider related phrases like "evoke memory" or "trigger memory" to fine-tune your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

evoke memory

Changes the verb to "evoke", implying a more passive recall of memory.

trigger memory

Replaces "elicit" with "trigger", suggesting a sudden and perhaps involuntary recall.

prompt a memory

Uses "prompt" to indicate a more direct and intentional act of encouraging recall.

stimulate memory

Suggests the activation or encouragement of memory through external means.

call forth memory

Emphasizes the act of summoning or retrieving a memory from the past.

draw out a memory

Implies carefully extracting a memory, potentially from a hidden or unclear state.

rekindle a memory

Suggests reviving a memory that has faded or weakened over time.

unearth a memory

Implies discovering a memory that was long forgotten or buried.

access memory

Focuses on the ability to reach and retrieve information stored in memory.

recover a memory

Highlights the process of regaining a lost or suppressed memory.

FAQs

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

You can use "elicit memory" to describe the act of drawing out a memory, such as, "The therapist used specific questions to "elicit memory" of the traumatic event from the patient."

What are some alternatives to "elicit memory"?

Alternatives to "elicit memory" include "evoke memory", "trigger memory", or "prompt a memory". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "draw out memory" instead of "elicit memory"?

While "draw out memory" is understandable, "elicit memory" is more formal and precise. You might also consider "call forth memory" as another alternative, depending on context.

What's the difference between "elicit memory" and "implant memory"?

"Elicit memory" refers to drawing out an existing memory, while "implant memory" refers to creating a false memory. They have opposite meanings and should not be confused.