English Language Lab

English Language Lab

Notes from the Group Class

Remember, remind, recall, forget and more...

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Rachel Boyce
Sep 21, 2025
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The primary focus of the class was a lesson on words and expressions related to memory and forgetfulness.

Understanding Memory Verbs:

  • Remember: To have a memory in your head (e.g., "I remember my first day of school.")

  • Remind: To make someone think of something, or to trigger a memory in oneself or others (e.g., "That song reminds me of my teenage years," "Please remind me to buy milk later.")

  • Forget: To not remember (e.g., "I forgot to call my mom.")

  • Recall: A more formal and specific synonym for "remember," often implying effort to retrieve a memory. It is suitable for professional or academic contexts (e.g., "The witness was unable to recall the details of the events."). Using "I don't recall" in professional settings is preferable to "I don't remember" as it suggests a temporary lack of information rather than a lack of ability.

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