回忆录

• Pinyin: huí yì lù
• Hanzi breakdown: 回 (return); 忆 = 忄+ 乙 (heart + second/change, to recall); 录 = 录 (to record in writing)

Meaning

Memoirs; a memoir. A written account of one's personal recollections, experiences, and reflections, typically by a notable figure.

Refers to a literary genre in which the author recounts their own life experiences, observations, and reflections. Distinguished from autobiography (自传) by its selective, episodic nature — a memoir focuses on particular events or periods rather than a comprehensive life narrative. Common in political, literary, and historical contexts.

Examples

1. 这位前外交官出版了一部厚达五百页的回忆录，详细记录了他在多个国家任职期间的亲身见闻。 The former diplomat published a 500-page memoir, detailing what he personally saw and experienced while serving in multiple countries.
2. 她的回忆录以质朴而真诚的笔触描写了文化大革命对普通家庭的深刻影响，出版后引发广泛共鸣。 Her memoir, written in a plain yet sincere voice, depicts the profound impact of the Cultural Revolution on ordinary families and, after publication, resonated widely.
3. 阅读伟人的回忆录，不仅可以了解历史，还能从中汲取面对困境时所需要的智慧与力量。 Reading the memoirs of great figures not only helps you understand history but also lets you draw wisdom and strength for facing adversity.

Usage Guide

Context: literature, history, politics, biography

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 这部政治家的回忆录出版后立即成为畅销书，因为书中首次披露了若干影响深远的历史决策背后鲜为人知的内幕。(This politician's memoirs became a bestseller immediately upon publication, because the book for the first time disclosed little-known details behind several far-reaching historical decisions.)
• 撰写回忆录要求作者具备高度的历史自觉性和道德勇气，既要如实呈现历史，又要对涉及的他人保持应有的尊重。(Writing memoirs requires the author to possess a high degree of historical self-awareness and moral courage — faithfully presenting history while maintaining appropriate respect for the other people involved.)

Don't Say

• 回忆录 to refer to a general diary or journal — use 日记 or 笔记; 回忆录 is a published or formally composed literary work of personal recollection, not an everyday private record

Origin & History

回忆 (to recall/reminisce) + 录 (record/written account) — a written record of recollections; memoirs

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal