positive recollection

USAGE SUMMARY

"positive recollection" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a fond memory that someone has of an event, experience, or place. For example, "She has a positive recollection of her childhood summers at the beach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Jack Housenger, a biologist who served as the director of the E.P.A.'s pesticide program, had a more positive recollection.

The New York Times

The company is not chasing what is new; it is using nostalgia this positive recollection of one's past —to reinforce the reliability and longevity of its brand.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

As the day went on, campaign aides were e-mailing reporters with quotations from classmates with more positive recollections.

The New York Times

He couldn't remember Bennett's name, according to Cornett, which shows what shallow footprints Bennett must have left his first time around the league, but he had positive recollections.

The New York Times - Magazine

But Mr. Clinton rattled off far more positive recollections from his presidency -- legislation that had passed, foreign policy successes, standing with Nelson Mandela in the prison cell where he had spent so much of his life.

The New York Times

I was one of the Swift boat veterans not interviewed by John E. O'Neill for his book, "Unfit for Command," no doubt because I have positive recollections of Mr. Kerry.

The New York Times

FOR fans of Italian cars — those with positive recollections, anyway — the high-profile introduction of the Fiat 500 to the United States this year holds the promise of a long-awaited brand renaissance.

The New York Times

McCartney, Starr and Martin have positive recollections of the sessions, while George Harrison said, "we did actually perform like musicians again".

Wikipedia

I understand that dying on a hospice bed in pain isn't exactly conducive to positive recollections about her life, but it shook me.

Vice

The positive comments and recollections by Mr. Clinton were one of the final bits of careful choreography leading up to the confirmation hearings before the Senate Judiciary Committee, which are scheduled to begin June 28.

The New York Times

When stimulus characteristics hampered the retrieval of abstract memory representations, these hemispheric asymmetries have previously only modulated event-related potential (ERP) correlates of recollection (late positive complex, LPC), but not of familiarity (FN400).

Brain and Cognition

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "positive recollection", consider what specific emotions or experiences you want to emphasize. The choice of related words, adjectives and nouns, can help to fine-tune the meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "positive recollection" to gloss over negative aspects of a memory. While it highlights the good, ensure it doesn't distort or ignore important truths about the past. Balance is key.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "positive recollection" functions as a noun phrase, where "positive" modifies the noun "recollection". It describes a memory or remembrance that is viewed favorably. As Ludwig AI suggests, it refers to a fond memory.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "positive recollection" is a noun phrase used to describe a favorable memory or remembrance. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and can be used to refer to a fond memory someone has of an event, experience, or place. While not extremely common, it is employed across various contexts, including news, science, and academia. When using this phrase, it's crucial to convey a sense of nostalgia or fondness, while being mindful of the potential to overemphasize the positive and potentially distort other important factors. Related phrases such as "fond memory" and "pleasant remembrance" offer alternative ways to express similar sentiments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fond memory

Focuses on the emotional warmth and affection associated with the memory.

pleasant remembrance

Emphasizes the agreeable and pleasing nature of the recalled event.

happy reminiscence

Highlights the joy and delight experienced when recalling the past.

favorable impression

Shifts the focus to the lasting impact and positive feelings generated.

good memory

A simpler and more general way to describe a positive memory.

bright recollection

Uses a visual metaphor to suggest clarity and positivity.

cherished memory

Indicates a memory that is deeply valued and treasured.

agreeable recollection

Stresses the pleasant and satisfying nature of the memory.

uplifting memory

Highlights the positive and inspiring effect of the memory.

gratifying remembrance

Emphasizes the satisfying and fulfilling nature of the recalled event.

FAQs

How can I use "positive recollection" in a sentence?

You can use "positive recollection" to describe someone's favorable memory of an event, for example: "He has a "positive recollection" of his time in the army."

What are some alternatives to "positive recollection"?

Alternatives include "fond memory", "pleasant remembrance", or "happy reminiscence", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to focus solely on a "positive recollection" of an event?

While focusing on the positive can be beneficial, it's important to acknowledge any negative aspects as well to maintain accuracy and avoid distorting the past. Consider providing a balanced perspective.

What is the difference between "positive recollection" and simply having a 'good memory'?

"Positive recollection" specifically refers to a memory that is viewed favorably, while 'good memory' refers to the ability to remember things well, regardless of their emotional valence. A good memory isn't necessarily a "positive recollection".