to memorialize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to memorialize" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of preserving the memory of someone or something, often in a formal or commemorative context. Example: "The community came together to memorialize the contributions of the local hero with a statue in the park."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The memorial is among the first monuments erected to memorialize the Confederate dead in the United States.

Wikipedia

There was not much left to memorialize.

The New York Times

And we take pictures to memorialize.

The New Yorker

Mr. Desfor was there to memorialize that, too.

The New York Times

Likewise, many cyclists use them to memorialize their rides.

The New York Times

I went back the next day to memorialize the event".

The New York Times - Magazine

But it's difficult to memorialize such a personage.

The New York Times - Books

The colors were chosen to memorialize Sept. 11.

The New York Times - Style

Ratmansky may have chosen this piece in order to memorialize his martyred predecessors.

The New Yorker

When Lou Walters died, in 1977, his daughter Barbara Walters did nothing to memorialize him.

The New Yorker

Is there a place on earth too obscure or homely to memorialize?

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to memorialize" when you want to formally commemorate or honor a person, event, or idea, often through creating a lasting tribute such as a monument, scholarship, or annual event.

Common error

Avoid using "to memorialize" in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "to remember" or "to honor" when the situation doesn't warrant a formal commemoration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to memorialize" functions as an infinitive of purpose, indicating the reason or intention behind an action. It often introduces a clause explaining why something is done, as supported by Ludwig AI. The phrase is used in numerous example sentences to illustrate its function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Science

19%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to memorialize" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that serves to indicate the purpose of preserving a memory, often through a formal act or lasting tribute. As Ludwig AI confirms, its primary function is to express intent, and it appears most frequently in News & Media sources, with Encyclopedias and Wiki following. While generally neutral in register, it leans towards formality and should be used thoughtfully to align with the specific context. Remember to avoid overuse in casual settings and consider alternatives such as "to commemorate" or "to honor" where appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to memorialise

A British English variant of "to memorialize".

to commemorate

Emphasizes a formal act of remembering, often through a ceremony or monument.

to pay tribute to

Highlights an act of respect and admiration for someone's achievements or qualities.

to honor the memory of

Focuses on revering the recollection of someone, often after their passing.

to immortalize

Implies making someone or something remembered forever, often through art or literature.

to enshrine

Suggests placing someone or something in a position of great respect and protection.

to keep alive the memory of

Stresses the effort to prevent someone or something from being forgotten.

to remember

A general term for keeping someone or something in one's thoughts and mind.

to perpetuate the memory of

Highlights the act of ensuring that the memory of someone or something continues through time.

to dedicate something to

Implies formally setting something aside to honor someone or something.

FAQs

How can I use "to memorialize" in a sentence?

You can use "to memorialize" to describe the act of creating something that preserves the memory of a person, event, or idea. For example, "The community decided "to memorialize" their fallen heroes with a monument in the town square".

What are some alternatives to "to memorialize"?

Alternatives include "to commemorate", "to honor", "to pay tribute to", or "to enshrine". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

What is the difference between "to commemorate" and "to memorialize"?

"To commemorate" generally refers to a formal act of remembering an event or person, while "to memorialize" often involves creating a physical or lasting tribute. Although these terms are largely interchangeable, "to memorialize" implies a more tangible or enduring form of remembrance.

Is "to memorialise" an acceptable alternative to "to memorialize"?

Yes, "to memorialise" is a British English spelling of "to memorialize". Both spellings are grammatically correct, but "to memorialize" is more common in American English.