memorandum

Everyday

1. (formal) A memorandum is a short written message sent inside an office, school or company, telling people about something. tree →
2. (formal) A memorandum is a note to help you remember something. tree →
3. (law) A memorandum of understanding is a written agreement between two groups or countries. tree →

In the lessons

In formal and office writing, history lessons about governments, and in writing lessons about formats. In everyday talk people say «memo». Phrases: «send a memorandum», «a memorandum of understanding».

Examples

• The head teacher sent a memorandum to all staff. tree →
• (formal) Please read the memorandum about the new rules. tree →
• Dad got a memo at work about the holiday party. tree →
• The two countries signed a memorandum of understanding. tree →
• A memorandum should be short and clear. tree →
• Write a memorandum to remind the class about the trip. tree →
• The memo said «No parking near the gates». tree →
• The secret memorandum was found in the archive. tree →

Note

Plural: memoranda (Latin) or memorandums. Short form «memo», plural «memos». Formal word. From Latin «something to be remembered».