Within living memory Meaning in English
expression
Definition
If something happened 'within living memory', it happened recently enough that people who are still alive remember it.
Usage & Nuances
This is a formal or semi-formal expression, often used in history or journalism. It does not refer to a fixed period—what counts as 'living memory' changes as generations pass. Often used to suggest recent history, but not yesterday. Don't use for ancient or very old events.
Example Sentences
No one remembers a flood this big within living memory.
basic
This city has changed a lot within living memory.
basic
The coldest winter within living memory was in 1985.
basic
Nobody has seen a championship like that within living memory.
natural
That's the worst traffic jam we've had within living memory.
natural
No event like this has occurred here within living memory.
natural