Recall: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
June 19, 2025

1. Recall (verb): To bring a fact, event, or situation back into one's mind; remember.
2. Recall (verb): To officially order someone to return to a place.
3. Recall (noun): The action or faculty of remembering something learned or experienced.
4. Recall (noun): An official order to return something, especially a product or a person.

The word "recall" is commonly used in formal and casual contexts, often referring to remembering information or calling something or someone back. It serves as a verb and a noun, playing distinct roles depending on the scenario. Continue reading to explore the diverse facets of "recall."

Recall Definition: What Does "Recall" Mean?

"Recall" holds multiple meanings across different contexts, primarily revolving around memory, return, or withdrawal.

Definition of "Recall": Memory Retrieval

In this context, "recall" refers to the ability to remember something previously learned or experienced.

Definition of "Recall": Official Summons

This meaning is used when an individual, group, or product is officially requested to return to a specific place.

Definition of "Recall": Product Withdrawal

"Recall" can also refer to the official withdrawal of a defective product from circulation.

Parts of Speech

The word "recall" functions as both a verb and a noun, each serving distinct purposes in communication. As a verb, it refers to the act of remembering something from the past or summoning someone or something back, often in an official or formal context. For example, one might "recall" a specific memory, or a company might "recall" a product due to a defect. As a noun, "recall" represents the act of remembering or the official action of withdrawing something or someone. In both forms, the word maintains a strong association with memory, return, and deliberate action, making it versatile in both casual and formal language use.

How to Pronounce "Recall"?

The word "recall" is pronounced as "ree-KAWL." It has two syllables, with the emphasis placed on the second syllable. The first part, "ree," sounds like the word "reef" without the 'f' sound at the end. The second syllable, "KAWL," rhymes with the word "call," as in making a phone call. When saying "recall," ensure the emphasis is clearly placed on "KAWL" while keeping the "ree" smooth and natural.

Phonetic Pronunciation: /rɪˈkɔːl/

Synonyms of "Recall": Other Ways to Say "Recall"

Here are some synonyms for "recall" that can be used interchangeably in different contexts:

  • Remember
  • Recollect
  • Retrieve
  • Call to mind
  • Summon
  • Withdraw
  • Evacuate
  • Retract

Antonyms of "Recall": Other Ways to Say "Recall"

Opposite terms for "recall" often refer to forgetting or dismissing:

  • Forget
  • Ignore
  • Dismiss
  • Overlook
  • Release

Examples of "Recall" in a Sentence

Below are ten examples showcasing the word "recall" in various contexts:

  1. She tried to recall the details of the conversation.
  2. The company issued a recall for its defective product line.
  3. Can you recall the last time we visited that park?
  4. The soldier was recalled to duty unexpectedly.
  5. His recall of historical dates was impressive.
  6. The government decided to recall the ambassador for consultations.
  7. I don't recall seeing that movie before.
  8. The product recall was issued after safety concerns were raised.
  9. The witness could not recall what happened that night.
  10. She had an exceptional ability to recall faces and names.

Frequency of Use

"Recall" is frequently used in spoken and written English, appearing in contexts ranging from casual conversation to legal documents and corporate communications. Its prevalence in product safety and psychological discussions highlights its versatility.

Variants of "Recall"

There are some common variations of "recall" used across different contexts:

  1. Recalled: The past tense form of the verb, indicating an action completed in the past.
  2. Recalling: The present participle form, used in continuous tenses.

Related Terms to "Recall"

Several terms are closely associated with "recall":

  1. Memory
  2. Retrieval
  3. Summon
  4. Recollection
  5. Remembrance

Etymology: History and Origins of "Recall"

The word "recall" originates from the Late Latin term recalare, meaning "to call back." It combines the prefix re- ("again") with the root calare ("to call"). Over time, its usage expanded to cover both memory and official withdrawal contexts.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Recall"

Some common derivatives and compounds of "recall" include:

  1. Recallable: Capable of being recalled.
  2. Recaller: A person who recalls something.

Common Misspellings of "Recall"

These are some frequently seen misspellings:

  1. Recal
  2. Recaul
  3. Recoll

10 Idioms Similar to "Recall"

These idioms capture a similar essence to "recall":

  1. Jog someone’s memory
  2. Ring a bell
  3. Call to mind
  4. Draw a blank
  5. Have a senior moment
  6. Slip one’s mind
  7. Bring to mind
  8. Keep in mind
  9. Come flooding back
  10. Lose track

10 Common Questions About "Recall"

Here are answers to common questions about "recall" to clarify its meanings, uses, and nuances.

1. What does "recall" mean in psychology?

In psychology, "recall" refers to the process of retrieving information from memory without explicit cues, often used in memory assessments and cognitive studies.

2. What is a product "recall"?

A product "recall" is an official request by a company or regulatory authority for customers to return defective or potentially unsafe products.

3. Is "recall" a verb or a noun?

"Recall" can function as both a verb, meaning to remember or call back, and as a noun, referring to the act of remembering or summoning something or someone back.

4. How do you use "recall" in a sentence?

You can use "recall" in sentences like: "She couldn't 'recall' the details of the meeting" or "The company issued a 'recall' for the defective toys."

5. What is the difference between "recall" and "remember"?

While both words involve retrieving information from memory, "recall" often implies a deliberate effort to bring information back, whereas "remember" can happen more passively or spontaneously.

6. What industries frequently use the term "recall"?

The term "recall" is commonly used in the automotive, pharmaceutical, and food industries, often referring to product safety issues.

7. Can "recall" be used in a legal context?

Yes, "recall" is often used in legal contexts, particularly regarding official orders to withdraw products, revoke political appointments, or summon individuals back to a specific location.

8. Is there a difference between "recall" and "recollection"?

"Recall" often refers to the act of actively retrieving a memory, while "recollection" emphasizes the accuracy or clarity of the remembered detail.

9. How do companies handle a product "recall"?

Companies typically handle a product "recall" by identifying the issue, informing customers, arranging returns or replacements, and ensuring corrective measures are taken.

10. What is the etymology of "recall"?

The word "recall" originates from the Late Latin term 'recalare,' meaning "to call back," combining the prefix 're-' ("again") and 'calare' ("to call").

Conclusion

The term "recall" refers to the act of remembering something, summoning someone or something back, or officially withdrawing a product or individual. Its versatility allows it to be used across psychological, legal, and commercial contexts, highlighting its importance in both everyday language and specialized fields. Understanding and using "recall" effectively can enhance clarity and precision in communication.

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