from memory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "from memory" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is being recalled without being looked up elsewhere. For example, "I was able to recite the poem from memory."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

And from memory.

The New York Times - Arts

(Not from memory).

The New York Times - Arts

All, of course, from memory.

The New York Times - Arts

"I write from memory.

The New York Times

The congregation recited its parts from memory.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The above was transcribed from memory.

The New Yorker

Maybe not, probably scrubbed it from memory.

The New Yorker

Anderson reconstructed complete novels from memory.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

All the soloists sang from memory.

The Guardian - Music

Can you recite it from memory?

The Washington Post

She could draw my butthole from memory!

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "from memory" to clearly indicate that information is being recalled without external aids. This adds credibility to your statements, especially when precise details are involved.

Common error

Avoid overstating the accuracy of information presented "from memory". Acknowledge potential limitations and be open to verifying details when necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "from memory" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate how an action is performed, specifically by recalling information or skills stored in one's mind. Ludwig indicates this usage is grammatically correct and widely accepted.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

16%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "from memory" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adverbial phrase that specifies the source of information as one's recollection. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English. It's seen across various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and wikis, and serves to indicate that information is being recalled without external aids. While useful for adding credibility, it's important to acknowledge potential limitations in accuracy when relying solely on memory. When referring to personal recollections, consider using alternative phrases such as "by heart" or "from recollection" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

By heart

Indicates memorization to the point of perfect recall, often used for reciting texts.

From recollection

Emphasizes the act of remembering something, particularly past events or experiences.

Off the top of my head

Implies a spontaneous answer or estimation without consulting external resources.

Without looking it up

Highlights the absence of consulting references or notes.

Based on my understanding

Indicates a judgment or interpretation derived from past knowledge.

As I recall

Introduces a statement based on one's memory, often with a slight reservation about accuracy.

From my own experience

Draws upon personal encounters and observations to support a statement.

As far as I can remember

Acknowledges the limitations of one's memory and possible inaccuracies.

Without notes

Emphasizes the absence of written aids or prompts.

Based on what I remember

Specifies that the information is derived from one's memory, which might be incomplete.

FAQs

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

You can use "from memory" to indicate that you are recalling something without looking at any reference materials. For example, "I recited the poem "from memory"" or "He reconstructed the events "from memory"".

What are some alternatives to saying "from memory"?

Alternatives to "from memory" include "by heart", "from recollection", or "off the top of my head" depending on the context.

Is it always reliable to recall something "from memory"?

While recalling something "from memory" can be impressive, it's not always entirely reliable. Memories can fade or become distorted over time, so it's best to verify important details when possible.

When is it appropriate to state that I am speaking "from memory"?

It's appropriate to state that you are speaking "from memory" when you are providing information without consulting external sources. This can add a personal touch and demonstrate your familiarity with the subject matter, but it's important to acknowledge the potential for inaccuracies.