reminder

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reminder" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to prompt someone to remember something or to bring attention to a specific point or task. Example: "This is just a friendly reminder to submit your report by Friday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When the Labour leader said no, a lowing sound could be heard, the noise of an audience uniting in sceptical rejection of the man before them – a reminder that one of Miliband's greatest errors since 2010 was his failure to debunk the narrative that blames Labour profligacy for the country's fiscal troubles.

The Guardian

The chance to go top had slipped through their fingers, a reminder not to get too carried away.

The Guardian - Sport

It should be a reminder to all of what is at stake if the Agreement is lost.

The Guardian

It was repeated throughout the show's three hours as a constant reminder to listeners that – whatever Barclays' staggeringly broad sins of the past (mis-selling, rigging interest rates, violating sanctions) – it is now firmly on the side of the angels.

The Guardian - Business

That President Obama is sympathetic is evident from his recent reiteration to the UN general assembly of his commitment to the two-state principle; a reminder of what he said in his speech in Cairo in 2009 during his first term: "....it is undeniable that the Palestinian people – Muslim and Christian – have suffered in pursuit of a homeland.

The Guardian

For anyone needing a reminder of his brilliance at this stage of his career it's worth reliving his man-of-the-match display in the 1986 FA Cup final, which Liverpool won 3-1 against Everton to seal the Double.

The Guardian - Sport

The litany of brutality, lawlessness and lack of accountability serves as a reminder of what a horrible decision President Obama made at the outset of his administration to close the books on this chapter in our history, even as he repudiated the use of torture.

The Guardian

They are a reminder of what could have been: a labour movement in the image and interests of women.

The Guardian

And this is for all those supporters of clubs like Bournemouth to serve as a reminder that, yes, dreams can come true.

The Guardian - Opinion

Protest voters had plenty of options, including the Greens (who are strong in Norwich and who will be disappointed to have finished fifth) and Ukip (whose strong fourth place is a reminder that the party could affect some close results in the general election).

The Guardian - Opinion

So his remarks on smacking shouldn't be seen as a sign that we were wrong about him; they should be seen as a reminder of who he really is.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Be specific about what the "reminder" is for. Vague reminders are less effective. For example, instead of "Here's a reminder," say "Here's a reminder about the meeting next week."

Common error

While "reminder" is versatile, it can sound overly formal in casual settings. For informal situations, consider using softer alternatives like "just a heads up" or "don't forget".

Linguistic Context

The word "reminder" primarily functions as a noun. It refers to something that causes you to remember something or someone. Ludwig provides examples where it denotes a note, event, or experience that prompts recollection.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Sport

12%

Business

9%

Less common in

Lifestyle

6%

Opinion

5%

Arts

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "reminder" is a common noun used to prompt memory or attention. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and versatile, fitting into numerous contexts. While its tone is generally neutral, it can be tailored by adding adjectives like "friendly". The analysis from Ludwig showcases its prevalence in news, sports, and business writing, indicating wide applicability. Alternatives such as "prompt" or "notification" may suit specific contexts where a more concise or formal tone is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prompt

A more concise, direct way to indicate a cue or encouragement to remember.

prompting

Emphasizes the action of causing someone to remember.

cue

Suggests a subtle hint or signal to recall something.

notification

Focuses on the act of informing someone, often about something they need to remember.

admonition

Implies a gentle warning or piece of advice that aids memory.

memory jogger

An informal term for something that helps you remember.

aide-mémoire

A formal term for a memory aid, often a note or document.

recollection trigger

Highlights the ability to initiate recalling information.

memorandum

A written record or communication, often used in business, that serves as a reminder.

mental note

An intention to remember something without physically writing it down.

FAQs

How to use "reminder" in a sentence?

You can use "reminder" in various contexts. For example, "This email is a reminder about the upcoming deadline." or "The old photos served as a reminder of happier times."

What can I say instead of "reminder"?

You can use alternatives like "prompt", "cue", or "notification" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "friendly reminder"?

Yes, "friendly reminder" is a common and polite way to preface a reminder, especially when you want to avoid sounding demanding.

What's the difference between "reminder" and "warning"?

"Reminder" is used to prompt memory or attention to something, while "warning" is used to alert someone to a potential danger or problem. A "reminder" helps you remember, while a warning alerts you to a risk.