is a distant memory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is a distant memory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is no longer present or relevant, often referring to a past event or experience that has faded from memory. Example: "The days of carefree childhood are now just a distant memory as we navigate the responsibilities of adulthood."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That is a distant memory now.

The New York Times - Sports

For men like Korir, that poverty is a distant memory.

The Guardian

And the summer logjam is a distant memory.

The New York Times - Travel

But winning the N.L. pennant is a distant memory now.

The New York Times - Sports

Three weeks later, the torrid start is a distant memory.

The New York Times

To this Jones replied that it meant "self-reliance is a distant memory, isn't it?..

The Guardian - Business

As is natural in fashion, though, all this is a distant memory.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The romantic notion of an artist's loft in SoHo is a distant memory.

The New York Times

Their early futility against the Red Sox is a distant memory.

The New York Times - Sports

It is a distant memory but it is there all the same.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The brief "Damascus spring" that followed President Assad's succession is a distant memory.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "is a distant memory" to emphasize the contrast between a past situation and the present, particularly when the past state is significantly different or no longer relevant. For example, use it to highlight a change in circumstances or a shift in priorities.

Common error

Avoid using "is a distant memory" in extremely casual or informal settings where simpler alternatives like "forgotten" or "over" would be more appropriate. The phrase has a somewhat formal tone and can sound out of place in very relaxed conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is a distant memory" functions as a predicative expression, often following a subject to describe something that belongs to the past and is no longer a significant part of the present. As Ludwig AI states, it indicates that something is no longer present or relevant.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is a distant memory" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something belongs to the past and is no longer relevant in the present. As noted by Ludwig AI, it indicates that something is no longer present or relevant. Its usage is particularly frequent in news and media contexts, where it serves to highlight changes and contrasts. While versatile, it's best to avoid overusing it in very informal conversations. Consider alternatives like "is long gone" or "has faded from memory" to vary your language. Ultimately, "is a distant memory" is a useful phrase for emphasizing the passage of time and the shifting nature of circumstances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is just a memory

Similar meaning, but with a slightly more nostalgic or sentimental tone, emphasizing the emotional aspect of remembrance.

has faded from memory

Focuses on the loss of recollection, implying that something is not easily remembered.

is a thing of the past

Highlights the outdated nature of something, suggesting it's no longer relevant or current.

is now history

States that something is finished and belongs to the past, often used for significant events.

is long gone

Implies something is completely finished and no longer exists. It emphasizes the absence more strongly than the original phrase.

belongs to another era

Highlights that something is outdated and characteristic of a previous period.

is ancient history

Suggests something happened a long time ago and is no longer important or relevant.

is water under the bridge

Implies that something from the past is over and done with, and there's no point in dwelling on it.

is consigned to oblivion

Indicates something has been completely forgotten or disregarded, often intentionally.

is no longer with us

Often used to describe the loss of a person but can apply to concepts, practices, or things that have ceased to exist or be relevant.

FAQs

How can I use "is a distant memory" in a sentence?

You can use "is a distant memory" to describe something from the past that is no longer relevant or easily recalled. For example, "The economic prosperity of the early 2000s "is a distant memory" for many who struggled through the recession."

What can I say instead of "is a distant memory"?

Alternatives to "is a distant memory" include "is long gone", "is a thing of the past", or "has faded from memory" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "that is a distant memory" or "it is a distant memory"?

Both "that is a distant memory" and "it is a distant memory" are grammatically correct. The choice depends on what you're referring to. "That" is used to point to something specific, while "it" is more general.

What's the difference between "is a distant memory" and "is long forgotten"?

"Is a distant memory" implies that something is difficult to recall or no longer relevant, while "is long forgotten" suggests it has been completely erased from memory. The first phrase emphasizes the fading of the memory, and the second emphasizes complete oblivion.