raw memories

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "raw memories" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe unfiltered, unprocessed, or vivid recollections of past experiences, often evoking strong emotions. Example: "As she flipped through the old photo album, raw memories of her childhood flooded back, bringing both joy and sadness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

On the one hand, the raw memories are fading.

The Guardian

They have raw memories of the 1991-92 war, in which Georgians behaved badly.

The Economist

What follows is a collection of raw memories, gathered while the debris still swirled.

The New York Times

Only edited memories are "happy" or "sad"; raw memories are just too confusing.

The New York Times - Books

She introduced rationing and food coupons – a fraught step in a city with raw memories of starvation and the Nazis' wartime blockade.

The Guardian

The court also said Yahoo's display of the material in France had violated a section of France's criminal code, which reflects still raw memories of World War II.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

They were coming out as raw memory.

The New York Times

Anthology Film Archives sticks in the throat like a raw memory.

The Guardian - Film

"Raw Memory", by two French journalists, reminds us, in a timely fashion, that Srebrenica, rather like Auschwitz, was not the only crime.

The Economist

Expression is so difficult?????" Written in 1918, Gardner doesn't paint a portrait so much as attempt a preliminary sketch while Brooke remains a raw memory.

Independent

But with the explosion of Los Angeles after the beating of Rodney King still a raw memory, anyone who didn't see the gulf between the races just wasn't paying attention.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing personal or collective trauma, use "raw memories" to convey the immediate and unprocessed emotional impact of the events. For example, use "raw memories of war" or "raw memories of loss" to evoke a strong emotional response.

Common error

Avoid using "raw memories" when you intend to express nostalgia or fondness for the past. "Raw memories" emphasizes the unprocessed and often painful nature of recollections, whereas nostalgia implies a sentimental longing for a bygone era. Do not use "raw memories" if "fond memories" is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "raw memories" functions as an adjective-noun combination. "Raw" modifies "memories", emphasizing their unprocessed and unfiltered state. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "raw memories" is a grammatically sound and relatively common phrase used to describe vivid, unprocessed recollections, often carrying strong emotional weight. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is appropriate across diverse contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, the phrase serves to emphasize the unfiltered nature of remembered experiences, distinguishing them from nostalgic or idealized reflections. When employing "raw memories" in writing, it's crucial to differentiate it from nostalgia and use it to convey the immediate emotional impact of past events.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unfiltered recollections

Emphasizes the lack of processing or editing of the memories.

vivid recollections

Highlights the clarity and intensity of the memories.

fresh memories

Suggests that the memories are recent and easily recalled.

indelible memories

Implies that the memories are permanent and cannot be forgotten.

painful memories

Highlights the emotional distress associated with the memories.

bitter memories

Focuses on the negative emotions, such as resentment, linked to the memories.

haunting memories

Suggests that the memories persistently affect one's thoughts and feelings.

unprocessed experiences

Shifts the focus to the experiences themselves before they become memories.

recent experiences

highlights how recent experiences are still easily recalled.

visceral memories

Emphasizes the deep, emotional, gut-level nature of the memories.

FAQs

How can I use "raw memories" in a sentence?

You can use "raw memories" to describe vivid and unprocessed recollections, often associated with strong emotions. For example: "The veteran's "raw memories" of the war still haunted him".

What are some alternatives to "raw memories"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "vivid recollections", "unfiltered recollections", or "fresh memories".

What is the difference between "raw memories" and "fond memories"?

"Raw memories" typically refer to unprocessed and often painful recollections, while "fond memories" evoke positive and sentimental feelings. The former emphasizes the immediate emotional impact, whereas the latter implies a gentle longing for the past.

Is it appropriate to use "raw memories" in formal writing?

Yes, "raw memories" can be used in formal writing, especially when discussing sensitive or traumatic events. However, consider the overall tone and purpose of your writing and ensure that the phrase aligns with the intended message.