foggy memory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "foggy memory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone has difficulty recalling specific details or events clearly. Example: "After all these years, I have a foggy memory of what happened during that summer vacation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

In Obama's case -- and maybe my own -- there might be something more than foggy memory at work.

The Washington Post

It is that top-down process that evaded Mr Haynes's foggy memory yesterday (and which Mr Horton exposes in his writing).

The Economist

You have less than thirty minutes to live with Eiji Miyake as nothing but a foggy memory from a foggy mountain island off the southern foot of Kyushu.

The Guardian - Books

He told investigators he had a "very foggy memory" of what went on as he passed through North Philadelphia piloting a train that originated in Washington's Union Station and was bound for New York City.

The Washington Post

Libby, they say, is guilty of nothing more than a foggy memory and recollections that differ, however dramatically, from those of several witnesses in the nearly two-year-old investigation.

The Washington Post

When faced with a later letter from a woman describing the abuse of boys by the Rev. John J. Geoghan, on which Cardinal Law had personally made a note, he cites both a foggy memory and bureaucratic procedure.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

We shared foggy memories of high school and vivid memories of our dating 20s.

The New York Times

Through dance and sound effects, the birds — played by three actors in regular street clothes — help Felix reconstruct foggy memories and, more often, fantasies masquerading as memories.

The New York Times

Not to mention those oddly foggy memories of Riyad Mahrez sending Joe Hart and Martín Demichelis halfway to the Manchester velodrome with an insolent little swivel en route to a goal and a victory that gave the title pursuit an air of unstoppable ascent.

The Guardian - Sport

I'm sure Mario Balotelli will always be remembered fondly at the Etihad, even when his goals become just foggy memories.

BBC

Morgan's music and Helen's foggy memories will take your breath away.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "foggy memory", consider the context. It's best suited for informal or neutral situations where you want to express a lack of clear recall without being overly technical or formal.

Common error

Don't use "foggy memory" to describe complete memory loss. "Foggy memory" indicates a lack of clarity or detail, while amnesia refers to a significant or total loss of memory.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "foggy memory" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "foggy" modifies the noun "memory". Ludwig AI confirms this structure is grammatically sound. It's used to describe the state of a memory being unclear or indistinct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "foggy memory" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a memory that is unclear or lacks detail. Ludwig AI confirms that it's suitable for a range of contexts, primarily appearing in news and media. While versatile, it's essential to differentiate it from complete memory loss (amnesia). Alternatives like ""hazy recollection"" or ""vague remembrance"" can be used for variety, but "foggy memory" remains a widely understood and accepted expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Hazy recollection

Focuses on the indistinct nature of the memory.

Blurred recollection

Emphasizes the lack of clarity in the memory.

Vague remembrance

Highlights the lack of specific details.

Indistinct memory

Stresses the absence of clear definition in the memory.

Dim memory

Suggests the memory is fading or weak.

Unclear recollection

Focuses on the lack of clarity when trying to remember.

Fuzzy memory

Similar to 'foggy' but can also imply emotional distance.

Imprecise memory

Highlights the lack of exactness in the memory.

Weak memory

Emphasizes the feebleness or frailty of the memory.

Uncertain recollection

Implies doubt or lack of confidence in the memory's accuracy.

FAQs

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

You can use "foggy memory" to describe a time when your recollection of something is unclear. For example, "I have a foggy memory of the party" or "His explanation was based on a foggy memory of the events".

What are some alternatives to "foggy memory"?

Alternatives to "foggy memory" include "hazy recollection", "vague remembrance", or "blurred memory". These phrases all suggest a lack of clear recall.

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

While grammatically correct, "foggy memory" is generally better suited for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider using more precise terms like "imprecise recollection" or "incomplete memory".

What causes a "foggy memory"?

A "foggy memory" can be caused by various factors, including the passage of time, stress, trauma, or even certain medical conditions. It indicates that the memory is not as clear or detailed as it once was.