Word Finder
What's the word for being unable to remember a word even though it feels just out of reach?
The word you're looking for
This is the phrase for when you cannot remember a word, but you feel it is almost there. It is the most common and natural way to describe this feeling in English.
Other words that fit
Use this if you want a rare, technical word for the same feeling.
Use this in a medical or psychological context, especially about word-finding problems.
Use this for a clear, formal description, especially in writing or reports.
Use this only in a simple, general way, but it does not show the exact feeling.
Why this word
The common phrase is tip-of-the-tongue. It means you know the word, but you cannot bring it to mind right now. People often say, “It is on the tip of my tongue.” Do not confuse it with simple forgetting, because this phrase suggests the word feels very close.
In context
- The answer is on the tip of my tongue.
- I had a tip-of-the-tongue moment during the test.
- She gets tip-of-the-tongue feelings when tired.
Other concepts to find a word for
Frequently asked questions
- Is tip-of-the-tongue one word?
- No, it is a fixed phrase, not one single word.
- Is there a medical word for this?
- Yes. Anomia is used in medical and language contexts.
- Can I say I have a tip-of-the-tongue feeling?
- Yes, that is natural and common in English.