trigger memory

USAGE SUMMARY

"trigger memory" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that causes someone to remember a past event or experience. For example, "The smell of baking cookies always triggers memories of my grandmother in the kitchen."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Ironically, worry itself can trigger memory slips.

Harvard University

She relies on her jewels to trigger memory.

The New York Times - Style

"I am interested in the emotive effects of song; how it can trigger memory and redefine a place".

The Guardian - Arts

He describes the entire project as a Proustian endeavour: instead of the madeleine, he uses everyday objects to trigger memory.

The Guardian - Arts

"Use phrases that trigger memory, such as 'Wasn't it fun when we saw that squirrel in the park today?"' she suggests.

Columbia University

And it is likely to be more appealing to severely depressed patients than electroconvulsive therapy, which is effective but can trigger memory loss, or vagus nerve stimulation, which requires surgery.

MIT Technology Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Among the topics they will cover: Can smells trigger memories?

The New York Times - Arts

"They have been described as emotional landscapes in that they trigger memories of places and times".

The New York Times

Finally, the ad seems designed to trigger memories of the Wagnerian iconography of Hitler's Germany.

The New Yorker

But what about all those healing gardens that are supposed to trigger memories and comfort a tortured mind?

The New York Times

Lonely linguist Amy Adams must work out how to communicate with these enigmatic ETs, who trigger memories of her dead daughter.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about memory, consider the specific sense or context that acts as the trigger. For instance, "The smell of old books can "trigger memory" of childhood libraries."

Common error

Avoid using "trigger memory" when you mean something simply caused a memory. "Trigger" implies a specific stimulus that initiates a memory, not just any event that leads to remembering.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "trigger memory" functions as a verb phrase where "trigger" acts as the verb, signifying the action of initiating or activating a memory. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It is commonly found describing stimuli that cause recollection.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "trigger memory" is grammatically sound and commonly used to describe the action of something initiating a memory. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is correct and understandable. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Academia, the phrase carries a neutral tone suitable for diverse contexts. To enhance writing, consider specifying the type of stimulus that acts as the trigger. Be mindful not to confuse "triggering" with simply "causing" a memory. Semantically similar alternatives include "evoke memory" and "stimulate memory".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

evoke memory

Replaces "trigger" with a synonym, "evoke", maintaining the same core meaning.

stimulate memory

Substitutes "trigger" with "stimulate", indicating an activation of memory.

prompt memory

Changes "trigger" to "prompt", suggesting that something encourages a memory to surface.

elicit a memory

Focuses on obtaining a memory using a different verb.

bring back memories

Emphasizes the return of memories, rather than the trigger itself.

spark a memory

Uses "spark" to convey the sudden initiation of a memory.

call up a memory

Highlights the act of recalling or retrieving a memory.

rekindle memories

Suggests that memories are being revived or made fresh again.

activate memory recall

Specifies that it is the memory recall process that is being activated.

jog someone's memory

Indicates that something helps someone remember.

FAQs

How can I use "trigger memory" in a sentence?

You can use "trigger memory" to describe something that causes a memory to surface. For example, "Certain smells can "trigger memory" of past events".

What is a more descriptive way to say "trigger memory"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "evoke memory", "stimulate memory", or "bring back memories".

Is there a difference between "trigger memory" and "jog memory"?

Yes, "trigger memory" suggests a more immediate and direct stimulation of a memory, while "jog someone's memory" implies a more subtle or assisted recall.

What kinds of things can "trigger memory"?

Various sensory inputs such as smells, sounds, sights, or even tactile sensations can "trigger memory". Additionally, specific places, dates, or conversations can also serve as triggers.