Recalling: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone actively tries to bring a specific memory or piece of information back to their mind.

• He had trouble recalling the name of his first grade teacher

General term for bringing something back to mind, whether spontaneously or through effort.

• She suddenly started remembering the good times they had together

Used when someone is fondly recalling past experiences, usually with a sense of nostalgia.

• They spent the evening reminiscing about their college days

Often used when trying to bring back a memory, especially after some effort. Sometimes it implies piecing together fragmented memories.

• After some thinking, she started recollecting events from her childhood

Used when thinking about a memory or past event.

• She was recalling her childhood days with great fondness

Used when taking something out of a place or situation; can have a negative connotation when referring to removing oneself from a social situation or commitment.

• She decided to withdraw her investment from the company

Typically used when getting something back, especially from a repository or a stored location.

• He managed to retrieve the files from the damaged hard drive

Often used to describe something that causes one to remember memories or feelings from the past.

• Seeing the old photos brought back memories of their school days