exceptional memories

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exceptional memories" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe memories that are remarkable or outstanding in some way, often evoking a sense of nostalgia or significance. Example: "The family gathered to share their exceptional memories from the summer vacations spent at the lake."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Like others with exceptional memories, Ms. Cooley also found ways of encoding information to make it easier to recall.

The New York Times - Arts

As well as knife arches, they will deploy super-recognisers – officers with exceptional memories who can spot suspects in crowds from faces they have memorised.

The Guardian

Poets in the oral tradition, like Homer, relied on repetition and rhythms and other patterns to recite their work from memory, and in the ancient world, exceptional memories were both exalted and widely known.

The New York Times - Books

Anders Ericsson, a psychology professor at Florida State University who has been researching people with exceptional memories for 20 years, said he is now convinced that genetics play a minor part.

The New York Times - Arts

Ms. Scheufele has exceptional memories of Cannes: walking off with the original golden palm tucked under her arm, and starting to improve on its "run over by a tire" look, or "Elizabeth Taylor showing me her jewelry with her little dog jumping all over it".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Few individuals who exhibit exceptional memory have been studied extensively.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Exceptional memory capacity is occasionally observed among mathematicians and others with exceptional talent for lightning calculation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He has an exceptional memory, and he works 60 hours a week.

The New York Times

He was also endowed with a discriminating eye, exceptional memory, perceptive intelligence, and humanistic learning.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He said he had an "exceptional memory", as anyone who knew him would testify.

The Guardian

In other words he had an exceptional memory for things he heard.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's cognitive abilities, use "exceptional memories" to underscore a remarkable capacity for recall, especially when it plays a crucial role in their expertise or achievements.

Common error

While seemingly complimentary, overuse may dilute its impact. Reserve "exceptional memories" for cases where the memory truly stands out and significantly impacts performance or understanding, rather than as a routine descriptor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exceptional memories" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "exceptional" modifies the noun "memories". According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It serves to describe memories that are remarkably outstanding.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exceptional memories" is a grammatically sound and readily understandable phrase used to describe memories that are remarkably outstanding. It functions as a noun phrase, with "exceptional" serving as a modifier. According to Ludwig, the phrase is accurate and suitable for use in written English. The phrase appears most frequently in news, encyclopedias, and science contexts, and its usage is generally neutral. Though Ludwig's analysis confirms the phrase's validity, it's worth noting that while seemingly complimentary, its impact could diminish through overuse, so it’s best to reserve it for cases where the memory truly stands out and significantly impacts performance or understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remarkable recollections

Emphasizes the act of recalling with a sense of wonder or significance.

extraordinary memory skills

Highlights the ability or skill associated with having exceptional memory.

prodigious memory

Emphasizes the vastness or extent of someone's memory.

vivid memories

Describes memories that are clear, detailed, and easily recalled.

acute recollection

Highlights the precision and accuracy of the memory.

superior recall ability

Highlights the efficiency and effectiveness of retrieving information from memory.

unforgettable experiences

Focuses on the memorable nature of events rather than the memory itself.

treasured memories

Suggests memories that are valued and cherished.

photographic memory

Refers to a specific type of memory known for its precise and detailed recall.

impressive mnemonic capabilities

Focuses on the mental techniques used to enhance memory.

FAQs

How can I use "exceptional memories" in a sentence?

You can use "exceptional memories" to describe someone's remarkable ability to recall information. For example: "The historian's exceptional memories allowed him to recount detailed historical events."

What are some alternatives to "exceptional memories"?

You can use alternatives like "remarkable recollections", "extraordinary memory skills", or "vivid memories" depending on the context.

Is it "exceptional memory" or "exceptional memories"?

"Exceptional memory" refers to the general ability, while "exceptional memories" refers to specific instances or recollections that are particularly noteworthy. Both are correct depending on the intended meaning.

What makes someone have "exceptional memories"?

Having "exceptional memories" can be attributed to various factors, including genetic predispositions, learned mnemonic techniques, or a heightened focus and concentration on details.