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.
Listen to the podcast Speak Better English with Harry or watch it on YouTube at Learn English with Harry. englishclass101
list of vocabulary words
Vocabulary For Describing Memories
Harry
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.
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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
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
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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