terrible memory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "terrible memory" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who has difficulty remembering things or has a poor recollection of events. Example: "I often forget important dates; I really have a terrible memory."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

IT IS a terrible memory.

The Economist

I have a terrible memory.

The New Yorker

What is your most terrible memory?

Independent

The man has a terrible memory.

The New York Times

EDWARD: Well what was your most terrible memory?

University of California, Berkeley

I just have this terrible memory for names and faces".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Brings back terrible memories.

Independent

I often have these terrible memories.

Independent

It brought back terrible memories of my childhood.

Independent

It is one of my most terrible memories".

The New Yorker

Even the word for leader, Führer, conjures up terrible memories.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When admitting to a "terrible memory", follow up with specific examples or strategies you use to compensate, such as note-taking or using reminders.

Common error

Avoid frequently using "terrible memory" as a justification for forgetfulness in professional settings. Instead, focus on implementing systems to improve recall and demonstrate responsibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "terrible memory" functions primarily as a descriptor, modifying the noun "memory" with the adjective "terrible". It indicates a negative quality or deficiency in one's ability to recall information. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

18%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "terrible memory" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a poor ability to recall information. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While acceptable in most situations, it's important to be mindful of the register and potential overuse. Alternatives like "poor memory" or "weak memory" may be more appropriate in formal settings. When discussing a "terrible memory", it's beneficial to provide context, such as specific examples or coping strategies, rather than simply using it as a blanket excuse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

poor memory

Replaces "terrible" with a more neutral adjective, indicating a lack of strong memory skills.

bad memory

A simpler and more direct way of saying "terrible memory".

awful memory

Substitutes "terrible" with "awful", conveying a similar negative connotation.

dreadful memory

Uses "dreadful" instead of "terrible" to emphasize the negative aspect of the memory.

appalling memory

Replaces "terrible" with "appalling", suggesting a shocking or disturbing lack of memory.

horrendous memory

Uses "horrendous" to highlight the extremely unpleasant or dreadful nature of the memory.

shocking memory

Implies that the memory is surprisingly bad or deficient.

weak memory

Focuses on the fragility or unreliability of the memory.

failing memory

Indicates that the memory is deteriorating or declining over time.

unreliable memory

Emphasizes the inconsistency and untrustworthiness of the memory.

FAQs

What does it mean to have a "terrible memory"?

Having a "terrible memory" means you often forget things easily, struggle to recall past events, or have difficulty retaining new information.

What are some other ways to say "terrible memory"?

You can use alternatives like "poor memory", "bad memory", or "weak memory" depending on the context.

Is it acceptable to admit to having a "terrible memory" in a job interview?

It's generally not advisable to emphasize a "terrible memory" in a job interview. Instead, focus on highlighting strategies you use to stay organized and manage information effectively.

Which is correct, "terrible memory" or "terrible remembrance"?

"Terrible memory" is the correct and more common phrase to describe a poor ability to recall information. "Terrible remembrance" is less frequently used and might refer to a painful or unpleasant memory.