Memoirs: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'memoirs' when referring to written accounts of significant events or periods in a person's life, often famous or historically significant people. These accounts tend to be subjective and focus on personal experiences and reflections.

• The former president's memoirs cover his time in office and his personal thoughts on major policies.
• She spent years writing her memoirs about her travels around the world.

An 'autobiography' refers to a complete account of a person's life, written by that person. It generally includes factual information about someone's life from birth to the present time or up until the time they stopped writing.

• Nelson Mandela's autobiography provides a detailed look at his life from childhood to his presidency.
• She decided to write an autobiography to share her journey from a small-town girl to a famous actress.

The term 'recollections' is used to describe remembered experiences or events, often shared in conversations or written works. It can also refer to less formal, more fragmented memories than those found in memoirs or autobiographies.

• His recollections of the war provide a personal perspective on historical events.
• During the reunion, we shared our recollections of school days.

A 'diary' is a daily record of personal thoughts, experiences, and feelings written by someone for private use. It often contains mundane details and is not necessarily intended for publication.

• She keeps a diary where she writes down her thoughts and feelings every night.
• Reading Anne Frank's diary gives a vivid picture of her life during hiding.