memorandum

/,memə'rændə/
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memorandum

The manager sends a memorandum to all department heads.

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.
memorandum

The manager sends a memorandum to all department heads.

Noun
  1. a written proposal or reminder