Remembrance: meaning, definitions and examples

Use in situations where you honor or remember someone or something, often in a formal or solemn way.

• A ceremony held in remembrance of the fallen soldiers
• She lit a candle in remembrance of her late husband

Used more broadly for thoughts and reflections about past experiences, both positive and negative.

• The house brought back many childhood memories
• She has fond memories of her grandmother's cooking

Appropriate when talking about the action of remembering something specific from the past.

• To the best of my recollection, we met in 2003
• His recollections of the event were vivid

Best for situations where you are recalling past experiences in a nostalgic or sentimental way.

• During the reunion, they engaged in shared reminiscences of their university days
• Her letters are filled with reminiscences of her youthful adventures

Suitable for formal events, ceremonies, or instances dedicated to remembering and honoring a person, event, or important date.

• A statue was built in commemoration of the town's founding
• The annual commemoration of Independence Day includes parades and fireworks

Used in solemn or serious situations, often related to memory of a person who has passed away or a significant event.

• We held a ceremony in remembrance of those who lost their lives in the war
• She wears her grandmother’s ring in remembrance

Typically used for items bought or collected during travel, to remind one of their travels or tourist experiences.

• She brought back a keychain as a souvenir from Paris
• The fridge is covered in souvenirs from all the places we've visited

Refers to a physical object kept as a reminder of a person, place, or event, often carrying personal sentimental value.

• She gave me a bracelet as a keepsake of our friendship
• The old photo album is a keepsake from my grandparents

Often used for small items given as a symbol or gesture to show appreciation, affection, or as a reminder. It can be used in both positive and sometimes formal contexts.

• He gave her a necklace as a token of his love
• The company presented a plaque as a token of gratitude for his years of service

Any object kept to remind one of a person, place, or event, but the term can be used more generally and implies a tangible reminder.

• I bought a small statue as a memento of my trip to Thailand
• He kept the concert ticket as a memento

Use in general or personal context when talking about remembering someone or something, typically in a respectful manner.

• 'Her remembrance of her grandmother was very touching
• ' 'We gathered in remembrance of the fallen soldiers
• '

Use to describe a structure or monument built to remember and honor a person or an event, or any event organized for such a purpose.

• 'They visited the war memorial each year
• ' 'A memorial service was held to honor the victims of the attack
• '

Use when expressing respect, gratitude, or admiration for someone, often as a formal statement or gesture.

• 'The artist's work is a tribute to his late mentor
• ' 'The committee paid tribute to the retiring teacher
• '

Use when referring to an event or ceremony organized to honor the memory of a person or event.

• 'The city held a commemoration for the heroes of World War II
• ' 'There will be a commemoration for the victims of the disaster
• '

Use specifically for a ceremony or service held for a deceased person before burial or cremation, often attended by family and friends.

• 'He gave a heartfelt speech at his father's funeral
• ' 'Attending the funeral helped us find closure
• '