memory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "memory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, such as discussing computer memory, human memory, or recalling past experiences. Example: "The computer's memory is full, and it needs to be cleared to run efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Lifestyle

Music

Film

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a documentary, ostensibly, but it's also a genre-defying film about memory and fiction and their strange, liquid relationship with the truth.

The Guardian - Film

Once there, coming from behind to beat Japan in the opening game will live long in the memory.

The Guardian - Sport

Prosecutors said the "erotic and sexual twerk dance" was disrespectful to the memory of those who fought in the second world war.

The Guardian

With the Last Supper fading into memory, I went to find some breakfast.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Lawn laughs softly at the memory, an illustration of how this lifelong fan, whose first match was a 3-0 win over Southport in 1964, is retaining perspective despite a desperately trying period for him, his wife, Yvonne, and their five children.

The Guardian - Sport

Peter was greeted by friends and comrades he had worked with for decades, and though he smiled and shook hands, he seemed to have little memory of them.

The Guardian - Opinion

As a survivor, you get to know yourself – who am I? How much can you take?" My memory is completely free – I do not lock it anywhere, but neither do I think about it.

The Guardian - Music

But behind the irresistibly courteous front, the infallible memory for faces, there is a real and lovable man, perhaps the biggest British football has produced.

The Guardian - Sport

It found that children who missed their naps slept better at night and scored higher in studies of memory and attention.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

CROSSY ROAD iOS/Android (freemium) The most addictive mobile game in recent memory, this takes the road-crossing premise of arcade classic Frogger, then runs (well, hops) with it.

The Guardian - Tech

Sometimes only another economic calamity can erase the memory of the one before.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the concept of "memory", consider specifying the type of memory you are referring to (e.g., working memory, long-term memory, computer memory) for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "memory" when you mean "memorial", which is something established to remind people of a person or event. "Memory" refers to the faculty of remembering.

Linguistic Context

The word "memory" primarily functions as a noun, denoting the faculty of the brain to encode, store, and retrieve information. Ludwig provides ample examples demonstrating its use in diverse contexts, from personal recollections to computer storage capacities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Sport

15%

Lifestyle

15%

Less common in

Music

10%

Film

10%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "memory" functions primarily as a noun, referring to the ability to recall past events or store information. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, as seen in numerous examples from reputable sources such as The Guardian and The New York Times. While alternatives like "recollection" and "remembrance" exist, "memory" remains a versatile and widely used term. Remember to differentiate it from "memorial" to avoid confusion. Understanding its nuances helps in clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Recollection

Focuses on the act of remembering something.

Remembrance

Emphasizes the act of recalling someone or something, often with a sense of respect or fondness.

Recall

Highlights the retrieval of information from the past.

Retention

Refers to the ability to keep or hold onto information.

Reminiscence

Implies a thoughtful reflection on past experiences.

Storage

Relates to the preservation of data or information.

Mnemonics

Refers to techniques used to improve memory.

Memorization

Emphasizes the act of committing something to memory.

Mementos

Objects kept as a reminder of a person or event.

Hindsight

Understanding an event or situation only after it has happened.

FAQs

How can I improve my "memory"?

Various techniques can enhance "memory", including mnemonics, spaced repetition, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Practices like regular exercise and adequate sleep contribute positively to cognitive functions.

What's the difference between "memory" and "recollection"?

"Memory" refers to the ability to store and retrieve information, while "recollection" is the act of remembering something. One is the faculty, the other is the action.

What are common causes of "memory" loss?

"Memory" loss can result from factors like aging, head trauma, neurological disorders, and certain medications. Lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, also play a role.

How is computer "memory" different from human "memory"?

Computer "memory" refers to physical storage devices that store digital data, whereas human "memory" is a cognitive process involving the encoding, storage, and retrieval of information in the brain.