Definition

Noun 1. A short written note or record used for internal communication: A document, typically brief and informal, used within an organization to communicate information, proposals, policies, or reminders. 2. A formal diplomatic communication: A written message, less formal than a note, exchanged between governments or diplomatic representatives. 3. A legal document outlining terms: A written statement that records the preliminary terms of a transaction or agreement.

Usage

• A memorandum is used for internal office communication to announce policies, share information, or propose ideas.
• It is often abbreviated as memo (plural: memos).
• It is typically structured with headings such as To, From, Date, and Subject.

Examples

• Internal Communication:
  • The manager sent a memorandum to all staff about the new safety procedures.
  • Please read the memo on the bulletin board regarding the schedule change.
• Diplomatic Context:
  • The embassy submitted a diplomatic memorandum to the foreign ministry.
• Legal/Business Context:
  • The lawyers drafted a memorandum of understanding to outline the deal's key points.

Advanced Usage

• Memorandum of Understanding (MOU): A formal agreement between two or more parties that outlines their mutual goals and responsibilities. It is often used before a formal contract.
  • The two companies signed a memorandum of understanding to explore a joint venture.
• To make a memorandum of something: (Formal) To write something down so it is remembered or recorded.
  • He made a memorandum of the key decisions from the meeting.

Variants and Related Words

• Memo (n.): The common, abbreviated form of memorandum.
  • I'll send you a quick memo about that.
• Memoranda (n.): A traditional plural form of memorandum, often used in formal or legal contexts.
  • The file contained several confidential memoranda.
• Memorandums (n.): Also a correct, commonly used plural form.

Synonyms

• Note: A brief written record.
• Message: A communicated piece of information.
• Dispatch: A formal official report or message.
• Minute: A written summary of the proceedings of a meeting.

Related Phrases

• Circular memorandum: A memo distributed to a large group of people within an organization.
  • A circular memorandum was emailed to all department heads.
• Internal memorandum: A memo intended only for use within a single organization.
  • The details are in an internal memorandum, so we cannot share it publicly.

Noun

1. a written proposal or reminder