記憶

• Reading: きおく
• Romaji: kioku
• Kanji breakdown: 記 (ki) — record, write down; 憶 (oku) — remember, recollect
• Pronunciation: /ki.o.kɯ/

Meaning

Memory; recollection; remembrance. The ability to remember or the stored memories themselves.

A noun and suru-verb meaning to remember or memorise. Covers both the faculty of memory and specific memories. Different from 思い出 (omoide, fond memory/reminiscence) — 記憶 is more clinical and includes both good and bad memories. Common in academic, medical, and everyday contexts.

Examples

1. 子供のころの記憶があまりありません。 I don't have many memories from childhood.
2. この単語を記憶するのに時間がかかりました。 It took me a while to memorize this word.
3. 彼の顔は記憶に残っています。 His face remains in my memory.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, education, psychology

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Combines 記 (record/write down) and 憶 (remember/recollect). Together they describe both the recording and recalling of experiences — the full process of memory.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal