gaps in memory

USAGE SUMMARY

"gaps in memory" is a grammatically correct phrase and can be used in written English.
This phrase is typically used to describe missing or incomplete memories or recollections. It can be used in various contexts, such as discussing neurological conditions, psychological disorders, or simply forgetfulness. Example: The witness's testimony was unreliable due to the gaps in her memory caused by the traumatic event she experienced.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

According to the Alzheimer's Society, one symptom is that "a person invents events to fill the gaps in memory".

The Guardian

Some witnesses whom Amendola will call may contradict the testimony already offered, and the gaps in memory that Amendola has exposed may be amplified further.

The New York Times - Sports

"The film deals with trying to complete gaps in memory," he says, "and also with some of the powerful beliefs that people with PTSD are left with: 'I didn't do enough', 'I abandoned him'.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This spate of interest in amnesia, after decades in which the movies were mostly content to leave the subject to daytime television, is peculiar for many reasons, chief among them that the condition is pretty rare in real life, at least in the extreme form films and soap operas tend to favor: total erasure of identity, years-long gaps in memory and the like.

The New York Times

For busy people, gaps in memory occur as gaps in time, and we speed up artificially to compensate.

Forbes

However, I may be left with some permanent gaps in memory, particularly for events that occurred close in time to the ECT course.

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

This deficit shrinks rapidly in the course of recovery but leaves an enduring gap in memory that seldom exceeds the three-quarters of an hour before onset.

Britannica

MacDonald, C. J., Lepage, K. Q., Eden, U. T. & Eichenbaum, H. Hippocampal "time cells" bridge the gap in memory for discontiguous events.

Nature

Developments in more recent times should be retained within the corporate memory of a department but that isn't always so (Wicks, 2012, p 595; Hillman, 2016, p 331; Andrews, 2014, p 33). Academics with detailed specialist knowledge may be in a position to fill that gap in memory, as the 'History and Policy' initiative has begun to do (History & Policy, 2017).

Nature

A psychiatrist, Jóse Miguel López Ibor, testified that Mr. López "is not the same as before," adding that he tries to cover up gaps in his memory by creating new memories, "which sound reasonable and credible, until you compare them to those of the people around him".

The New York Times

And while gaps in a memory are generally believed to indicate an unreliable memory, the reality is that gaps are virtually a hallmark of the remembering process.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "gaps in memory", provide context to clarify the extent and nature of the memory loss. For instance, specify whether it's related to a specific event, a period of time, or a medical condition.

Common error

Avoid attributing "gaps in memory" to a single cause without sufficient evidence. Memory loss can stem from various factors, including trauma, aging, or medical conditions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gaps in memory" functions primarily as a noun phrase indicating missing or incomplete recollections. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly used. Examples show it describing symptoms, effects of trauma, or general forgetfulness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gaps in memory" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that describes missing or incomplete recollections. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news media, scientific literature, and academic discussions. When using this phrase, it's important to provide context to clarify the nature and extent of the memory loss. While the phrase is versatile, avoid overgeneralizing its cause and consider the various factors that can contribute to memory loss. Alternatives like "memory lapses" or "missing memories" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Memory gaps

A simple reversal of the words, preserving the original meaning.

Shortcomings in memory

Replaces "gaps" with a synonym emphasizing deficiencies or inadequacies.

Deficits in memory

Uses a more clinical term to indicate a lack or impairment in memory function.

Memory deficits

Similar to "deficits in memory" but with a slightly different emphasis.

Lapses in memory

Suggests temporary failures or interruptions in the ability to recall information.

Memory lapses

Rearranges the phrase while maintaining the core meaning of temporary memory failures.

Missing memories

Emphasizes the absence of specific memories, rather than the process of forgetting.

Memory blanks

Uses an informal expression to describe areas of forgotten information.

Memory voids

Employs a more metaphorical term to describe empty spaces in one's recollections.

Lacunae in memory

Uses a more formal and technical term (lacunae) to refer to missing parts.

FAQs

How can I describe "gaps in memory" in simpler terms?

You can use phrases like "memory lapses", "missing memories", or "forgetfulness" depending on the context.

What are the common causes of "gaps in memory"?

Common causes include trauma, stress, aging, neurological conditions, and substance abuse. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

How are "gaps in memory" different from dementia?

"Gaps in memory" can be a symptom of dementia, but they can also occur due to other factors. Dementia is a broader term for cognitive decline, while "gaps in memory" refer specifically to missing or incomplete recollections.

Can "gaps in memory" be improved or treated?

Treatment depends on the cause. Strategies include therapy, medication, memory exercises, and lifestyle changes. Early intervention is crucial for managing and potentially improving memory function.