Is 'That Reminds Me' Correct? Unraveling the Linguistic Wonder
The English language is a rich tapestry woven with numerous expressions and idioms, each serving a specific purpose and contributing to the nuance and depth of our communication. One such idiom that often catches people's attention is 'that reminds me.' Let's delve into when and how to use this phrase correctly, explore its origins, and understand its common applications in everyday conversation.
Correctness and Common Usage
Yes, the phrase 'that reminds me' is perfectly correct and very common. It’s a versatile expression that people often use to transition smoothly from one topic to another. For instance:
A: 'I was walking along the lane this morning and noticed a dead fox lying under a tree.'
B: 'Oh, that reminds me - did you ask Mrs. Fox next door to give you the window cleaner’s phone number.'
Another context where this phrase comes into play is when someone wants to bring up something that was previously forgotten or that their current situation or experience brings to mind. Consider this example:
My past experience reminded me not to make the same mistake again.
Understanding the Phrase
The phrase 'that reminds me' is more than just a social grace; it serves a practical purpose. It is an English expression that has been used for a long time, indicating a momentary recall or realization after an external trigger. This can be illustrated with a simple scenario:
You are preparing breakfast, and you reach into the cupboard for some breakfast cereal. To your dismay, you discover the box of Corn Flakes is empty. In that moment, you might think to yourself: 'That reminds me to put Corn Flakes on my grocery shopping list.'
This mental note serves as a reminder for you to take action in the near future. The 'click' in your mind symbolizes the realization or reminder, which the phrase 'that reminds me' conveys.
Origins and Historical Usage
The phrase's origins are rooted in the natural human tendency to make associations. When a new situation or experience brings up a memory or a need, it can be described as a 'reminder.' This process is encapsulated in the phrase 'that reminds me,' making it a powerful tool for discourse. Historically, this phrase has been used to create mental notes or bring up forgotten topics in a meaningful way.
Conclusion
In essence, the phrase 'that reminds me' is not just a nicety but a functional element of English communication. It is used to transition topics, recall forgotten items, and bring up important points. Understanding and correctly using this phrase enhances your ability to communicate effectively and maintain smooth conversations.
So, the next time you find yourself in a situation where a reminder or a new thought pops into your mind, feel free to use 'that reminds me.' It is a perfectly correct and very common phrase in the English language, enriching our dialogues and making our conversations more engaging and efficient.