Vocabulary For Describing Memories

Learn vocabulary to describe memories in English. These useful words and phrases will help you expand your vocabulary.

This lesson is especially beneficial for those preparing to take the IELTS or any other English proficiency exam. The topic “Describe a childhood memory” is included in IELTS Speaking Part 3.

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list of vocabulary words

Vocabulary For Describing Memories

In this English lesson, we’re going to explore some vocabulary that I believe would be really helpful, especially for those of you who may be taking proficiency exams in English and aiming to enhance your vocabulary, particularly for the spoken and written tests.

We’ll focus on English vocabulary for describing memories. Whether it’s discussing your childhood, past job experiences, or sporting achievements.

We’ll cover words associated with this topic, including verbs, nouns, and adjectives.

to reflect

Meaning: to think deeply or carefully about something

Examples:

She sat by the window and reflected on her childhood memories.

He reflected on the lessons he learned from his past experiences.

to blot out

Meaning: to remove or erase something from your memory or to try to forget or ignore it completely

Examples:

I want to blot out that bad teacher from my memory.

I’ve blotted that out of my memory completely and don’t want to think about it anymore.

to evoke

Meaning: to bring back or remind us of something from the past. It’s like a mental trigger that helps us remember and feel certain things again.

Examples:

The conversation evoked memories of that bad teacher and how he used to treat me badly.

The old photograph evokes memories of my childhood summers spent at the beach.

The mention of changing jobs evoked memories of how stressful that period was.

Scraping through exams evoked vivid memories of the intense struggles and late nights studying.

Vocabulary For Describing Memories

Vocabulary for describing memories. IELTS speaking part 3. Improve English speaking skills. Upgrade your vocabulary. English grammar rules. Improve English speaking. Advanced English lessons on Zoom and Skype. Improve English speaking and writing skills. #learnenglish

to recall

Meaning: to remember or bring back to mind

Examples:

I recall meeting him many many years ago.

I can recall the first time I met her as if it were yesterday.

I often recall memories of my childhood when I visit my hometown.

to remind

Meaning: to cause someone to remember or bring something back to their attention

Examples:

I set an alarm to remind me of the important meeting tomorrow.

Just wanted to remind you that your grandmother’s birthday is next week.

Meeting my friends reminded me of the good old days in college.

The sight of the apple tree reminded me of taking apples from the orchard when we were kids.

to reminisce

Meaning: to remember and talk about past experiences in a nostalgic and enjoyable way

Examples:

The aroma of freshly baked cookies made me reminisce about my grandmother’s holiday treats.

During our recent family gathering, we reminisced about last year’s holiday.

It’s good to sit back and reminisce about the old days.

to suppress

Meaning: to intentionally block or hide memories from your thoughts; to hold back something

Examples:

It’s a bad idea to suppress your emotions, you should let them out.

She tried to suppress the painful memories of her past, seeking comfort in the present.

People have a tendency to suppress bad memories and mostly recall the good times.

to come back

Meaning: past memories return or reappear in your mind

Examples:

Ah, it’s coming back to me now. I remember meeting her on that sunny afternoon in the park.

As I looked through the old photo album, the images brought back a flood of emotions, and unforgettable memories came back to me.

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mind

Meaning: the part of us that keeps and recalls past experiences

Examples:

I had something on my mind, but I forgot. I’ll remember it later, and I’ll talk to you about it then.

Our minds hold memories, keeping them safe for us to remember and treasure.

nostalgia

Meaning: a deep and sentimental affection for the past

Examples:

Old people like a bit of nostalgia as it allows them to relive cherished moments from their youth.

Listening to old songs filled him with nostalgia for his college days.

The smell of freshly baked cookies brought back a wave of nostalgia.

a trip down memory lane

Meaning: revisiting past memories or reminiscing about nostalgic moments from the past

Examples:

Looking through old photo albums with my family always feels like a delightful trip down memory lane.

Visiting my childhood neighbourhood after so many years felt like a trip down memory lane.

recollections

Meaning: things that we remember

Examples:

Some people have surprisingly clear recollections from when they were 3 or 4 years old.

He had good recollections of his childhood, remembering the joyful moments and adventures he experienced.

Vocabulary For Describing Memories

Vocabulary for describing memories. IELTS speaking part 3. Improve English speaking skills. Upgrade your vocabulary. English grammar rules. Improve English speaking. Advanced English lessons on Zoom and Skype. Improve English speaking and writing skills. #learnenglish

evocative

Meaning: something that brings out strong emotions or memories

Examples:

The powerful and evocative speech stirred nostalgic memories of the past.

The old photograph was evocative, instantly transporting me back to my childhood.

lasting

Meaning: memories that last for a long time

Examples:

Our relationship holds a special place in my heart as a lasting memory.

The impact of his kind words created a lasting memory in her heart.

vivid

Meaning: strong and clear memories or experiences

Examples:

I have a vivid memory of playing with my friends in the park.

The vivid memories of my graduation day will always stay with me. I remember the excitement and pride.

unforgettable

Meaning: something that is impossible to forget or that leaves a lasting impression in your memory

Examples:

The hiking trip with my friends left us with unforgettable memories.

My camping holidays in the south of France, many years ago, created unforgettable memories.

fond

Meaning: memories that are cherished, affectionate, or deeply enjoyed

Example:

I cherish the fond memories of spending my summer with my grandparents in the countryside.

I have fond memories of our family vacations at the beach.

bittersweet

Meaning: a mix of both happiness and sadness

Examples:

Graduation day was a bittersweet memory. I was excited to move forward but also sad to say goodbye to my friends.

The bittersweet memories of my time living abroad remind me of the challenges I faced but also the amazing experiences.

bring back memories

Meaning: to cause someone to remember or recall past experiences, often triggered by a certain event

Example:

The sound of waves brought back nostalgic memories of family holidays by the beach.

The old song playing on the radio instantly brings back memories of dancing with friends at that summer music festival.

The conversation with my childhood friend brought back memories of our adventures and playful moments.

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more information

For more information on English grammar rules, English collocations and English idioms, check out the links below:

English idioms about negotiations

English vocabulary related to driving

You can always study English advanced level at Learning English with the BBC and British Council Learn English.

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