B2verb2K

Recall

UK /["/rɪˈkɔːl/","/rɪˈkɔːlz/","/rɪˈkɔːld/","/rɪˈkɔːlɪŋ/"]/US /["/rɪˈkɔːl/","/rɪˈkɔːlz/","/rɪˈkɔːld/","/rɪˈkɔːlɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to remember something

In simple words: To remember something from the past.

Examples

  • I can easily recall the events of that day.
  • He struggled to recall her name during the conversation.
  • The committee decided to recall the product due to safety concerns.
  • After years, she still could not recall the details of her childhood.
  • The company issued a notice to recall the defective items from stores.

Usage notes

Used when talking about memory or past experiences. More common in formal or academic contexts. Avoid in casual speech where other words like 'remember' may be preferred.

Grammar pattern

recall + object

Memory hint

Think of 'recall' as 're-call' – calling back memories to your mind.

Collocations

  • clearly
  • distinctly
  • vividly
  • seem to
  • be able to
  • can
  • recall how…
  • recall seeing, reading, hearing, etc. something

Synonyms

  • recollect
  • evoke

Antonyms

  • forget
  • overlook

Common mistakes

  • Used as a noun instead of verb (e.g., 'the recall' instead of 'to recall')
  • Confused with 'recollect' which has a slightly different nuance
  • Misused in contexts where 'forget' is more appropriate