What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
flashback
Example
The sound of the waves crashing on the shore triggered a flashback of my childhood beach vacation. [flashback: noun]
Example
In the movie, there was a flashback scene showing the protagonist's childhood. [flashback: adjective]
Example
After the accident, she experienced flashbacks of the traumatic event. [flashbacks: plural noun]
memory
Example
I have a good memory for faces, but not for names. [memory: noun]
Example
My favorite childhood memory is playing with my dog in the park. [memory: noun]
Example
She tried hard to jog her memory and remember where she put her keys. [memory: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Memory is a more common word than flashback in everyday language. Memory is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while flashback is more specific and often used in storytelling or psychological contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between flashback and memory?
Both flashback and memory can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but memory is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
