vague memory

USAGE SUMMARY

"vague memory" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are trying to express that you are recalling or thinking of something without details or clarity. For example: "I had a vague memory of the event, but I couldn't remember any specific details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A vague memory of vomiting there once.

The New Yorker

Ken Hazlett, too, has a vague memory of this.

The New Yorker

But I have a vague memory that he's personable, suave, and relaxed.

The New Yorker

I must have had a vague memory of it — an unconscious resonance.

The New Yorker

I had a vague memory of him in an Indian headdress, racing down a hallway.

The New Yorker

I had a vague memory of being carried up some stairs, over his shoulders.

The Guardian - Books

He has a vague memory of going to New York to see his uncle play.

The Guardian - Music

But the Sherlock Holmes aspect surprised me: when he mentioned a fall, I had a vague memory of pain.

The New York Times

Like Ong, he had a vague memory that quinine was capable of causing all kinds of unusual side effects.

The New York Times - Magazine

It helped when he mentioned O'Reilly — that conjured up a vague memory of seeing something similar on "The O'Reilly Factor".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

I have vague memories of not wanting to talk about certain things, like your things.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a memory as "vague memory", consider adding context about why it's unclear. Is it due to the passage of time, emotional factors, or lack of attention at the time of the event?

Common error

Avoid simply stating you have a "vague memory" without explaining why. Enhance your writing by indicating what aspects of the memory are unclear or what factors contribute to its vagueness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vague memory" functions as a noun phrase where "vague" modifies the noun "memory". It describes a state of recall characterized by a lack of clarity or detail, similar to what Ludwig shows in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

8%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "vague memory" is a common and acceptable phrase used to describe recollections that lack clarity or detail. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. While universally understood, writers should consider providing additional context to enhance understanding of why the memory is unclear. Alternatives such as "hazy recollection" or "fuzzy impression" can offer slightly different shades of meaning. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively use "vague memory" to communicate uncertainty about past experiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hazy recollection

Emphasizes the lack of clarity and distinctness in the memory.

fuzzy impression

Highlights the indistinct nature of the remembered experience.

dim remembrance

Underscores the fading or weakening quality of the memory.

unclear recollection

Focuses on the lack of clarity and detail in the memory.

fleeting memory

Indicates the brief and transient nature of the memory.

shadowy recollection

Suggests that the memory is obscured or partially hidden.

imprecise memory

Highlights the lack of exactness or accuracy in the memory.

blurry memory

Evokes a sense of indistinctness and lack of focus in the memory.

indistinct recollection

Stresses the absence of clear definition in the remembered experience.

faint recollection

Highlights the subtle and weak quality of the memory.

FAQs

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

You can use "vague memory" to describe a memory that lacks clarity or detail. For example, "I have a "vague memory" of our trip to the beach, but I can't recall the specific details".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "vague memory"?

Some alternatives to "vague memory" include "hazy recollection", "fuzzy impression", or "dim remembrance".

Is it appropriate to use "vague memory" in formal writing?

Yes, "vague memory" is appropriate in both formal and informal writing to describe a memory that is not clear or detailed. However, consider providing more specific language depending on the context. For example, "imprecise memory" or "uncertain memory" may be better.

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

Having a "vague memory" means that your recollection of an event or piece of information is not clear, detailed, or complete. It suggests that the memory is somewhat indistinct or "unclear recollection".