What is the Difference Between Remember and Remind?

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The verbs "remember" and "remind" both involve recalling something, but they have different meanings and uses:

  • Remember: This verb means to keep a person or thing in your mind or to bring a person or thing back to your mind. It is often used to recall a past action or event, or to keep something in memory. For example, "I remember leaving the water on".
  • Remind: This verb means to cause someone else to remember something, ensuring that they do not forget. It is often used to help someone else remember a rule, obligation, or task. For example, "Can you remind him to buy more cat food? We ran out".

In summary:

  • "Remember" is used to recall something from the past or to keep something in mind.
  • "Remind" is used to help someone else remember something or ensure they do not forget.

Remembering is something you can do alone, while reminding always involves at least two people or things.

Comparative Table: Remember vs Remind

Here is a table illustrating the differences between "remember" and "remind":

Function Remember Remind
Definition to have a memory of something or to keep a memory to cause someone to think of something or make someone remember something they have forgotten
Sentence Structure -ing form or to-infinitive requires an object or verb+ing
Independent Can function independently or be followed by a clause, infinitive, or gerund Requires an object or verb+ing
Usage "I remember doing that." or "Remember to feed the cat." "The smell of the sea reminds me of my childhood." or "I reminded him to book a table."

Remember means to have a memory of something or to keep a memory, while remind is used to cause someone to think of something or make someone remember something they have forgotten.