what a memory

USAGE SUMMARY

"what a memory" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is commonly used as an exclamation to express surprise or admiration for a particular memory. Examples: - "What a memory that was, I will never forget it!" - "I can't believe you still remember that, what a memory!" - "What a memory to hold onto, it brings me joy every time I think about it." - "Wow, what a memory you have! You remembered every detail of our trip."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

But what a memory!

The Guardian - Sport

What a race and what a memory.

BBC

That game led me to anger and disgust towards the Argentines, i disliked them for so long but once again apreciate their football (I grew up basically) after batty missed the pen i went crazy, i hit the floor, punched it to be honest, and broke three knuckles lol, What a memory!

BBC

I realize this is bizarre, given that he doesn't understand what a tape recorder is, what a memory is, and why his mommy no longer has one.

Huffington Post

The popular conception of what a memory is differs to the engineering or scientific definition, which is "a previous action that affects a future action".

Vice

So alter the mice -- let's help cure disease -- but let's also take the opportunity to stop for a moment and reflect on what a memory is and isn't, and how we'd like to remember and be remembered.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

But what a happy memory.

The New York Times

What a short memory you have.

The New York Times

What a good memory he has.

The Guardian - Books

And what a prodigious memory he has of it.

The Guardian - Books

'What a short memory our Miss Grey has,'' Miss Skattergoods said, putting the newspaper clipping back on the table.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "what a memory" to express genuine surprise or appreciation for someone's recollection or a shared experience. This exclamation adds a touch of warmth and personal connection to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "what a memory" when you simply mean someone has a good memory in general. Reserve it for instances when a specific, notable memory is being recalled or discussed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what a memory" functions as an exclamatory expression, typically used to convey surprise, admiration, or appreciation for a particular recollection. It's a way to acknowledge the significance or impressiveness of someone's memory, as supported by Ludwig examples where it follows a remarkable recollection or event.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what a memory" is a grammatically correct and usable exclamatory phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves as a way to express surprise, admiration, or appreciation for a specific memory being shared. While it isn't extremely common, the phrase finds its place in informal conversations, personal writings, and accessible media like news articles. Use it to connect with someone over a shared experience or to acknowledge the significance of their recollection. While its frequency is uncommon, its purpose is very powerful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what a keepsake

Emphasizes the value of a memory as something preserved.

what a souvenir

Highlights the memory as a memento of an experience.

what a story

Focuses on the narrative aspect of the memory.

what a mind

Acknowledges the impressive ability to remember.

what a memoir

Positions the memory as part of a larger personal recollection.

what a memorial

Suggests the memory serves as a tribute or remembrance.

what a reminder

Highlights how the memory brings something to mind.

what a brief

Expresses the surprisingly short duration of memory.

what a computer

Conveys the amazing capability to store and process memory.

what a thing

Expresses general amazement about the memory.

FAQs

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

You can use "what a memory" to express admiration or surprise about a particular memory, such as: "I can't believe you remembered that detail, what a memory!"

What's a similar phrase to "what a memory" that conveys a similar sentiment?

Alternatives include phrases like "what a keepsake" or "what a story", which emphasize the precious or narrative aspect of the memory.

Is it appropriate to use "what a memory" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "what a memory" is generally more suited for informal or conversational contexts. In formal writing, consider more direct expressions of admiration or surprise.

What is the difference between saying 'you have a good memory' and 'what a memory'?

'You have a good memory' is a general statement about someone's ability to recall things. "What a memory" is an exclamation expressing surprise or admiration about a specific memory being shared or recalled.