memorize: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Neutral to formal
Quick answer
What does “memorize” mean?
To commit information to memory.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To commit information to memory; to learn something by heart so that you can remember it exactly.
To store data or information in a computer's memory (technical context). To absorb and retain as a learned behavior or habit (figurative).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The primary difference is spelling. The British English spelling is 'memorise'. The American English spelling is 'memorize'. Both forms are pronounced the same.
Connotations
Identical in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally common in both dialects, with the respective spelling conventions applied.
Grammar
How to Use “memorize” in a Sentence
Subject + memorize + Direct Object (e.g., I memorized the poem.)Subject + memorize + Direct Object + from + Source (e.g., She memorized the number from the board.)Subject + memorize + Wh-clause (e.g., He memorized where the exits were.)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “memorize” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- You must memorise the dates for the history exam.
- Actors spend weeks memorising their scripts.
- I've finally memorised my national insurance number.
American English
- You need to memorize the formulas for the test.
- She memorized all the state capitals in a week.
- He quickly memorized the access code.
adverb
British English
- He recited the poem memorably.
- The scene was memorably dramatic.
American English
- She sang the anthem memorably.
- The product is memorably advertised.
adjective
British English
- It was a memorable performance.
- The memorable event is often discussed.
American English
- It was a memorable experience.
- He has a memorable face.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used for learning procedures, codes, or key client information. (e.g., 'All staff must memorize the new safety protocol.')
Academic
Common in language learning, history, or sciences for factual recall. (e.g., 'The students were required to memorize the periodic table.')
Everyday
Used for phone numbers, shopping lists, passwords, or song lyrics. (e.g., 'I can never memorize my new PIN.')
Technical
In computing, refers to storing data in RAM or cache. (e.g., 'The algorithm memorizes previous calculations to speed up processing.')
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “memorize”
- Using 'memorize' when you mean 'remember'. (Wrong: *'I can't memorize his name.' Correct: 'I can't remember his name.')
- Using the British spelling 'memorise' in American English contexts.
- Incorrect verb pattern: *'memorize about something' (correct: 'memorize something').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Memorize' refers to the active, intentional process of learning something so you can recall it later. 'Remember' is the passive ability to bring that information back to mind. You memorize first, then you remember later.
Yes, 'memorise' is the standard spelling in British, Australian, and other Commonwealth English varieties. 'Memorize' is the standard spelling in American English.
Not typically. 'Memorize' is for factual, declarative information (like a piece of music written as notes). For physical or procedural skills, we use 'learn' or 'master' (e.g., learn to play the piano, master a technique).
'Commit to memory' or 'learn by heart' are excellent formal synonyms. 'Learn by rote' is also used but often has a negative connotation of learning without understanding.
To commit information to memory.
Memorize is usually neutral to formal in register.
Memorize: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmem.ə.raɪz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmem.ə.raɪz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Learn something by rote (a near-synonymous idiom)”
- “Know something inside out (implies deep memorization and understanding)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a MEMO-rize. You write a memo to remember something; you MEMORIZE to make your brain remember it.
Conceptual Metaphor
MEMORY IS A STORAGE CONTAINER (you put information into it). LEARNING IS DIGESTING (you memorize facts to 'internalize' them).
Practice
Quiz
Which sentence uses 'memorize' correctly?