total recall

/ˈtoʊtl̩ rɪˈkɔːl/

noun★Intermediate💡 perfect memory recall

informal

The ability to remember every detail of an event or experience perfectly.

The witness demonstrated total recall during the trial, recounting every word spoken.

The witness remembered and repeated every word spoken during the trial accurately.

💡

Often used in contexts involving memory, psychology, or technology.

informal

A 1990 science fiction film starring Arnold Schwarzenegger.

I loved the action scenes in Total Recall.

I enjoyed the exciting fight sequences in the movie Total Recall.

💡

The phrase is also the title of a famous movie, which may influence its usage.

Collocations

total recall ofperfect memory oftotal recall abilityperfect memory ability

the ability to remember images or details perfectly

the ability to recall sensory information with high precision

Be aware that 'total recall' can refer to both perfect memory and the movie, so context is important.

Use 'total recall' sparingly, as it is a strong phrase and may not apply to everyday memory situations.

Derived from the combination of 'total' (complete) and 'recall' (memory retrieval). Popularized by the 1990 film.

Primarily used in psychological or technological contexts to describe perfect memory retrieval. Can also refer to the movie.

total

complete or entire

adjective

recall

the act of remembering

noun

English Dictionary