within living memory: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘within living memory’ mean?
The idiom "within living memory" means a period of time that is still remembered or experienced by people who are still alive.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "time out of mind" means a period of time so long ago that it is difficult to remember or imagine. It conveys a sense of antiquity or the distant past.
The idiom "time of one's life" refers to a period or experience of great enjoyment or excitement. It implies that someone is having a fantastic and memorable time, often in a specific event or activity.
The idiom "time flies" means that time passes quickly without us realizing it.
The idiom "refresh someone's memory" means to remind someone about something they have forgotten or to help them recall information or details. It is often used when someone needs a reminder or clarification about something they already know.
The idiom *memory lane* refers to the act of recalling and reminiscing about past events or experiences, often with a sense of nostalgia and sentimentality.
An idiom *long time* means a significant period or duration. It is often used to emphasize the length of time that has passed or will pass.
The idiom "living end" refers to someone or something that is extremely entertaining, exciting, or impressive. It can describe a person, event, or experience that is considered incredibly enjoyable or amusing.
The idiom "live to tell the tale" means to survive a dangerous or difficult situation and be able to recount the experience to others.
Fading Spectres
The idiom "within living memory" refers to events or occurrences that have happened during the lifetime of people who are still alive. This means that the subject being discussed is within the realm of personal experience. It emphasizes the notion that the topic is not distant or abstract, but rather something that individuals can personally recall and have a direct connection to.
In historical or societal contexts, the idiom "within living memory" is often used to highlight events or changes that have taken place within a generation. It serves as a reminder that certain events are not confined to distant history books or archives, but rather are part of a collective memory that can be passed down and shared among individuals who have experienced them firsthand.
The idiom is widely used and recognized in English-speaking countries, although its definitive origin or historical documentation is unclear. The meaning of the idiom is derived from the literal interpretation of the words "living" and "memory," which together convey the idea of events or experiences that are within the reach of personal recollection.
Examples of usage can be found in discussions about political changes, technological advancements, or cultural shifts that have occurred in recent decades. By using the idiom "within living memory," speakers or writers can evoke a sense of familiarity and relatability, highlighting the connection between the past and present.
It's important to note that the idiom "within living memory" can be subjective, as it depends on the perspective and age of the individuals involved. What may be within the living memory of an older person might be beyond the living memory of a younger individual. This subjectivity adds flexibility to the idiom, allowing it to be adapted to different situations and contexts.
The idiom "within living memory" encapsulates the idea of events or experiences that are still within the personal recollection of individuals who are currently alive. It serves as a reminder that history is not solely confined to the pages of books, but can be part of a living narrative shared by the collective memory of a generation. The usage of this idiom allows for a connection between the past and present, emphasizing the relatability and significance of recent events within a society. It offers a tangible bridge to the past, while acknowledging the subjectivity inherent in personal memories and experiences.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *within living memory* can be used in a sentence:
- Within living memory, a snowstorm of this magnitude has never been seen in this town.
- His achievements are the greatest within living memory.
- I can't recall a time when our team has won the championship within living memory.
The idiom *within living memory* is used to describe events or situations that have occurred during the time period within which people can still remember or recall. It is often used to emphasize that something is recent or unprecedented in the minds of those who are alive. The phrase indicates that the event or situation is significant and stands out as a memorable occurrence within the recent history of a specific group or community.
More "Time" idioms
