Translation guide
The English verb "remember" covers recalling past events, keeping information in mind, not forgetting tasks, and commemorating people or events. Japanese uses different verbs and structures depending on the nuance.
To bring a past experience, fact, or memory back into your mind.
The most common and natural way to say 'remember' when you actively recall something. It implies the memory comes back to you, often spontaneously or with effort.
I can't remember his name.
I suddenly remembered that day.
Literally 'I am remembering,' this describes the state of having a memory. It's used for things you still remember, not the act of recalling.
I remember my childhood well.
Do you remember the last scene of that movie?
A more formal or literary way to say 'remember,' often used in writing or serious contexts. It emphasizes the act of retaining a memory.
He remembers the details of the incident accurately.
To retain information, such as a fact, a person's name, or a skill, in your memory.
The basic verb for memorizing or learning something so that you remember it. It can also mean 'to learn' or 'to master.'
It's hard to remember new vocabulary.
A more formal verb for committing something to memory. Often used in technical or academic contexts.
You need to remember the data accurately.
Specifically means 'to memorize by heart,' often used for rote learning like vocabulary or formulas.
Memorize historical dates.
To keep in mind a future task or obligation; to not overlook doing something.
The most natural way to say 'remember to do something.' Literally 'don't forget to do.' Use the verb in dictionary form + のを忘れない.
Remember to buy milk.
Make sure you remember to do your homework.
Literally 'keep in mind that you will do something.' Slightly more deliberate than the negative form. Often used for important reminders.
To show respect for a person or event from the past, often through a ceremony or monument.
Used for remembering and mourning the dead, often in formal contexts like memorial services.
A ceremony was held to remember the war dead.
To commemorate an event or person, often with a monument, holiday, or celebration. More about honoring a positive memory.
A day to remember independence.
To remember fondly or cherish the memory of someone, often used for deceased loved ones. Has a poetic, emotional nuance.
To recognize someone you have met before; to recall who they are.
Used when you remember a person, meaning you recognize them or know who they are.
Do you remember me?
I remember his face, but I can't recall his name.
Literally 'there is a memory of seeing.' Used when you think you've seen someone or something before, but may not fully remember.
思い出す is the act of recalling (a punctual verb), while 覚えている is the state of remembering (a stative verb). Use 思い出す when a memory comes back to you, and 覚えている when you have the memory in mind.
覚える means 'to memorize' or 'to learn,' not 'to remember to do something.' For tasks, use 〜するのを忘れない or 〜することを覚えておく.
Intended: Remember to buy milk. (This sounds like 'Learn how to buy milk.')
I remember that day clearly.
Remember to lock the door.
I can't remember where I put my keys.
Did you remember his phone number?
Remember to bring your passport.
We offered a silent prayer in remembrance of the deceased.
I remember that person from somewhere, but who is it?