Recollective: meaning, definitions and examples

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recollective

 

[rɪˈkɒlɛktɪv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

memory

Relating to or characterized by recollection; involving the act or process of recalling past experiences or events.

Synonyms

memory-driven, remembering, reminiscent.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
recollective

Used in more formal or literary contexts to describe the process or action of recalling past experiences or events.

  • Her recollective journey through childhood was both painful and joyous.
  • The book's recollective narrative transported the readers back in time.
remembering

A straightforward term used in everyday language, referring to the act of recalling information or past events.

  • She had a hard time remembering where she parked the car.
  • Remembering birthdays is important to her.
reminiscent

Describes something that reminds one of past experiences, often used for sensory or evocative descriptions.

  • The old photographs were reminiscent of their childhood adventures.
  • The scent of pine trees was reminiscent of her holidays in the mountains.
memory-driven

Refers to actions, behaviors, or responses significantly influenced by memories. Usually used in a more psychological or analytical context.

  • His decisions are often memory-driven, shaped by past failures and successes.
  • Memory-driven anxiety can affect one's present state of mind.

Examples of usage

  • He had a recollective moment when he visited his childhood home.
  • Her recollective abilities helped her solve the mystery of the missing items.
  • The recollective nature of the photographs brought back memories of the trip.
  • The recollective process of writing in her journal helped her process her emotions.
  • The recollective task of organizing old photographs brought back nostalgic feelings.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'recollective' comes from the Latin word 'recollectus', which means 'to gather again' or 'to remember'.
  • The prefix 're-' often suggests a return or repetition, while 'collect' hints at gathering memories.
  • The word reflects a deeper concept of actively retrieving memories rather than they simply being stored.

Psychology

  • Cognitive psychologists study how the recollective process can be improved through techniques like mnemonics.
  • Recollective memory can be triggered by sensory experiences, such as smells or sounds, often linking emotions to memories.
  • Certain types of memory recall can diminish with age, making recollection strategies especially important as we grow older.

Literature

  • Many authors use recollective narrative styles to revisit past events, creating a sense of nostalgia in their stories.
  • The concept appears often in poetry, where the act of recollecting sparks vivid imagery and emotions.
  • In classic literature, characters often engage in recollection to reveal deeper truths about themselves.

Cultural Significance

  • Cultural rituals often involve collective recollection, such as storytelling traditions that keep history alive.
  • Recollective practices are vital in therapies, helping individuals come to terms with their past experiences.
  • Festivals and anniversaries often serve as communal occasions for the recollection of shared memories.

Memory Techniques

  • Journaling is a powerful recollective tool that helps individuals document and reflect on their daily experiences.
  • Mind mapping can enhance recollection by visually organizing thoughts and memories into a structured format.
  • Memory retrieval cues, such as photographs or familiar places, can facilitate recollective processes.

Translations

Translations of the word "recollective" in other languages:

🇵🇹 recoletivo

🇮🇳 स्मरणात्मक

🇩🇪 erinnernd

🇮🇩 mengingat

🇺🇦 спогадовий

🇵🇱 wspomnieniowy

🇯🇵 回想的

🇫🇷 récolletif

🇪🇸 recordativo

🇹🇷 hatırlatıcı

🇰🇷 회상하는

🇸🇦 استذكاري

🇨🇿 vzpomínkový

🇸🇰 spomienkový

🇨🇳 回忆的

🇸🇮 spominski

🇮🇸 endurskoðandi

🇰🇿 естелік

🇬🇪 მეხსიერებითი

🇦🇿 xatırladıcı

🇲🇽 recordativo