Memo: meaning, definitions and examples

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memo

 

[ˈmɛmoʊ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

taking notes

A short note or record for helping the memory; a memorandum.

Synonyms

memorandum, note, reminder.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
memo

Used in a business or office environment to communicate short and formal messages to employees or colleagues. Typically used for internal communication.

  • Please read the attached memo before the end of the day.
  • The manager sent out a memo about the new office policies.
memorandum

A formal, written communication used in business or governmental settings. It is usually official and has a more serious tone than a memo.

  • The memorandum outlined the terms of the new partnership.
  • A memorandum was issued to announce the changes in the law.
note

Used for quick, informal communication. Suitable for jotting down ideas, reminders, or messages that don't require formalities.

  • I left a note on your desk about the meeting time.
  • She wrote a note to remind herself to buy milk.
reminder

Usually informal and used to prompt someone to do something or remember something. Can be both verbal or written.

  • Just a reminder that your doctor's appointment is tomorrow.
  • She sent a reminder email about the upcoming deadline.

Examples of usage

  • He wrote a memo to himself to remember to buy milk.
  • I need to make a quick memo of this important meeting.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'memo' is short for 'memorandum', which means 'that which is to be remembered' in Latin.
  • The term entered English in the 17th century, initially referring to a written reminder.

Business Communication

  • Memos are often used in organizations to share important updates, decisions, or policies.
  • They differ from letters by being less formal and usually used for internal communication rather than external.

Digital Age

  • In the digital world, memos have evolved into emails and instant messages, but their purpose remains the same: sharing important information quickly.
  • Software tools for managing tasks often allow users to create memos to keep track of what needs to be done.

Psychology

  • Writing memos can aid memory retention, as the act of writing helps solidify thoughts in our minds.
  • Using bullet points in memos can enhance clarity and help recipients better understand the information.

Pop Culture

  • Memos often appear in movies and TV shows as comedic elements where characters forget or misinterpret them.
  • The classic sitcom 'The Office' frequently features memo-related humor, showcasing their role in everyday office life.

Translations

Translations of the word "memo" in other languages:

🇵🇹 memorando

🇮🇳 स्मरण

🇩🇪 Notiz

🇮🇩 catatan

🇺🇦 записка

🇵🇱 notatka

🇯🇵 メモ

🇫🇷 mémo

🇪🇸 nota

🇹🇷 not

🇰🇷 메모

🇸🇦 مذكرة

🇨🇿 poznámka

🇸🇰 poznámka

🇨🇳 备忘录

🇸🇮 opomba

🇮🇸 minnisblað

🇰🇿 жазба

🇬🇪 შენიშვნა

🇦🇿 qeyd

🇲🇽 nota

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,085, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.