in recent memory: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘in recent memory’ mean?
The idiom "in recent memory" refers to a specific period of time that is easily remembered or recalled. It implies that something is significant or noteworthy within that timeframe.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "within living memory" means a period of time that is still remembered or experienced by people who are still alive.
When something *leaps to mind*, it means that an idea or thought quickly springs into one's consciousness without much effort. It indicates an instant and obvious association with a particular topic or situation.
The idiom "last minute" refers to the final moments before a deadline or event. It suggests that something is done or happens with very little time or notice remaining, often causing rushed or stressful situations.
The idiom "jog someone's memory" means to remind someone of something they have forgotten or to help them remember something. It is often used in situations where someone is trying to recall information or events from the past.
The idiom "in this day and age" refers to the present time or era, emphasizing its contrast with the past. It expresses the idea that things have changed significantly and highlights the modern advancements and developments that currently exist.
The idiom "in the blink of an eye" means something happening extremely quickly or instantaneously.
The idiom "in the blink of an eye" is a widely recognized expression in the English language. It is often used to describe something that happens quickly or instantaneously, emphasizing the speed or brevity of an event or action. The origins of this idiom can be traced back to the physiology of blinking and its associations with quickness and reflexes.
The idiom "in no time" means very quickly or without delay, suggesting that something will be completed or happen in a short period of time.
The idiom "in living memory" refers to something that has happened or existed within the lifetime of people who are still alive. It signifies a relatively recent event or occurrence that can be remembered by those who have experienced it firsthand.
The idiom "in focus" means to have clarity or clear understanding of a situation or topic. It refers to being attentive, concentrated and having a sharp mental focus on a specific subject.
The idiom "in and out" refers to something that is done quickly or briefly. It implies a swift or short-lived action or presence.
Unraveling Recent Memory
One of the many idioms in the English language that has gained popularity over the years is "in recent memory." This idiom is widely used in everyday conversation and written contexts in the United States. It refers to a time period that is within the memory of individuals or within a relatively short span of time.
When examining the origin of this idiom, it is important to note that its etymology is not readily available. The exact history of "in recent memory" remains elusive, with no concrete information proving the idiom's first usage or its creator.
Regarding the meaning of this idiom, it is worth noting that it is used to emphasize the recency of an event or time period. The phrase suggests that the period being referred to is easily recalled or remembered by those involved or the general populace. The term "recent" implies a connection to the present or a time frame that is close in proximity, while "memory" indicates the act of recalling something that has happened in the past.
Furthermore, "in recent memory" often serves as a rhetorical device to underscore the significance of a particular event by highlighting its recent occurrence. This idiom allows speakers or writers to express a contrast between the present and the recent past, emphasizing the importance of the event or time period in question. The usage of this idiom can be found in various domains, such as politics, sports, and cultural discussions, where recent events often shape the narratives.
While "in recent memory" is a well-known idiom, its prevalence in everyday language and written discourse does not translate into a vast amount of information about its history or variants.
"in living memory" is a related idiom that shares a similar meaning with "in recent memory." It refers to a time period that is within the memory of individuals who are currently alive. This idiom emphasizes the recency of the event or time period and implies that it is easily recalled or remembered by those who are alive to witness it. It serves as a way to highlight the significance of an event or time frame in the context of the present.
"within living memory" is another related idiom that conveys a similar idea to "in recent memory." It refers to a time period that is within the memory of individuals who are currently alive. This idiom emphasizes that the event or time period being referred to is easily recalled or remembered by those who are alive. It emphasizes the connection to the present and the significance of the event or time frame.
"back in the day" is a colloquial idiom that is often used to refer to a time period in the past, typically from one's own personal history or experience. It emphasizes a sense of nostalgia or fondness for a time when things were different or perceived to be better. This idiom does not necessarily imply the recency of the event or time period, but it is used to evoke a nostalgic sentiment.
"In recent memory" is a commonly used idiom in the English language. Its meaning echoes the recall or remembrance of events or time periods that are within the memory of individuals or occurred within a relatively short span. Although its etymology remains elusive, the idiom is an important linguistic tool to emphasize the recency and significance of events or time frames. While this analysis did not uncover the definitive origins or variants of this idiom, it sheds light on its prevalent usage and impact on everyday communication.
Example usage
1. The movie received such rave reviews that it is considered one of the best films in recent memory.
2. The storm left behind a trail of destruction that hasn't been witnessed in recent memory.
3. The election result was a complete upset, unlike anything we have seen in recent memory.
More "Time" idioms
