rely on memory

USAGE SUMMARY

"rely on memory" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to mean to use one's own memories or recall of past experiences in order to remember something. For example: "Since I did not write down the directions, I had to rely on memory to remember the way home."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Don't rely on memory.

The New York Times

I had to rely on memory.

The Guardian

Whatever you do, don't rely on memory.

The New Yorker

"He can't rely on memory to navigate through spaces.

The New Yorker

Ms. Cooper's mixed-media collages rely on memory to trigger recognition.

The New York Times

Rather they'll have to rely on memory – should they buy a swordfish steak?

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

(Those mice also had performed better in field tests that rely on memory-based learning).

Los Angeles Times

It would be dangerous to rely on memories of events that occurred so long ago.

Wikipedia

The 'high-memory' sub-strategy was applied if subjects could rely on memories of both color and position of (at least) the next block.

Plosone

When animals visit food sources, avoid possible areas of danger or seek refuge they often rely on memories to identify such places of interest.

Animal Cognition

"Virtually all psychological research relies on memory," he told me.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When precise details are crucial, supplement memory with notes or recordings. Do not "rely on memory" alone for critical information.

Common error

Avoid assuming your memory is infallible. Just because you think you remember something accurately doesn't mean you do. Always double-check important details rather than blindly "rely on memory".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rely on memory" functions as a verb phrase, indicating dependence on one's cognitive ability to recall information. Ludwig AI shows this usage in various contexts, highlighting its role in decision-making and recounting events.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

58%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rely on memory" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the act of depending on one's ability to remember things. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent usage across various contexts, including News & Media and scientific publications. While the phrase is generally acceptable, it's important to acknowledge potential memory biases and supplement recollections with external aids when precision is crucial. Alternatives such as "depend on recall" or "trust one's memory" can be used to add nuance. However, in formal settings, it is important to ensure the reliability of memories.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

depend on recall

Focuses specifically on the act of remembering.

trust one's memory

Emphasizes the confidence in the accuracy of one's memory.

count on remembrance

Highlights the act of relying on past experiences.

bank on recollection

Suggests a strong reliance on the details remembered.

use one's memory as a guide

Implies that memory serves as a navigational tool.

draw on past experiences

Focuses on utilizing accumulated knowledge over time.

operate from memory

Signifies acting without external references.

go by what one remembers

Simple and direct way of expressing reliance on recall.

fall back on memory

Suggests that memory is the final option.

have faith in one's memory

Highlights the confidence in the accuracy of remembering something.

FAQs

What does it mean to "rely on memory"?

To "rely on memory" means to depend on your ability to remember something, often in the absence of external aids or references.

How can I avoid having to "rely on memory"?

You can avoid having to "rely on memory" by taking notes, using reminders, and organizing information in a structured way.

What are some alternatives to "rely on memory"?

You can use alternatives like "depend on recall", "trust one's memory", or "count on remembrance" depending on the context.

Is it always a bad idea to "rely on memory"?

Not necessarily. In some situations, it's unavoidable or even beneficial to "rely on memory". However, for critical tasks or important details, it's best to supplement memory with external aids.