What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
recall
Example
I can't recall his name, but I remember his face. [recall: verb]
Example
The smell of the ocean breeze recalled memories of childhood vacations. [recalled: past tense]
remember
Example
I always remember my mother's birthday. [remember: verb]
Example
He couldn't remember where he parked his car. [remembered: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Remember is more commonly used than recall in everyday language. Remember is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while recall is less common and is often used in formal or technical settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between recall and remember?
Recall is typically associated with a more formal tone, while remember is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.