We must not forget that
Presentation and public speaking expression
Use this phrase to anchor your argument in a truth your audience already knows and values.
En 15 secondes
- Used to emphasize a crucial, non-negotiable point in a discussion.
- Common in speeches, presentations, and serious professional meetings.
- Creates a sense of shared responsibility by using the word 'we'.
Signification
This phrase is used to highlight a very important fact or idea that people might be overlooking. It acts like a verbal highlighter to make sure everyone focuses on the most critical point.
Exemples clés
3 sur 7Planning a company budget
We must not forget that our employees are our greatest asset.
We must not forget that our employees are our greatest asset.
Planning a group dinner
We must not forget that Sarah is allergic to peanuts.
We must not forget that Sarah is allergic to peanuts.
A formal political speech
We must not forget that freedom comes with great responsibility.
We must not forget that freedom comes with great responsibility.
Contexte culturel
This phrase is a cornerstone of political and corporate rhetoric in the West. It is designed to foster a sense of 'collective memory' and shared values among a group. It gained significant traction in the 20th century during major social and political movements to ground arguments in fundamental human rights.
The Power of 'We'
By using 'we' instead of 'you,' you make the reminder feel like a shared journey rather than a lecture. It builds rapport instantly.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this phrase for every small detail, it loses its power. Save it for the 'big' points you really want people to remember.
En 15 secondes
- Used to emphasize a crucial, non-negotiable point in a discussion.
- Common in speeches, presentations, and serious professional meetings.
- Creates a sense of shared responsibility by using the word 'we'.
What It Means
Imagine you are in a boat. The wind is blowing hard. Everyone is confused. You stand up and point to the lighthouse. We must not forget that is your finger pointing at that light. It is a way to ground a conversation in reality. It is not just a simple reminder. It is a call to focus. You are saying that the following information is vital. It is the "north star" of your discussion. It is a mental highlighter for your most important point.
How To Use It
You usually place this phrase at the beginning of a sentence. It acts as a powerful introduction. You are setting the stage for a big reveal. Or perhaps you are stating a core truth. For example, in a meeting, you might say this. We must not forget that our goal is quality. It sounds much more professional than just saying "Remember quality." It creates a sense of collective responsibility. You are including yourself in the reminder by using we. It is a gentle but firm way to lead a group.
When To Use It
This phrase shines in professional and public settings. Use it during a speech to emphasize a moral point. It is perfect for a team leader who needs focus. You can also use it in serious personal conversations. If you are discussing a future plan, it adds sincerity. It is great for writing, too. It helps a reader understand which part is most critical. It feels heavy, so use it when the topic has weight. It works well in debates or when making a case.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this for trivial things. If you say, We must not forget that the cat needs water, it sounds dramatic. It is too heavy for daily chores. Avoid using it if you are trying to be casual. It can make you sound like a professor. If you are at a loud party, just say "Don't forget." Using the full phrase might feel like a boring lecture. Do not use it if you want to sound lighthearted. It is a serious tool for serious moments.
Cultural Background
This expression is deeply rooted in the history of public speaking. It comes from a tradition of rhetoric. Leaders use it to unite a crowd. It creates a shared history or a shared truth. In English-speaking cultures, there is a strong emphasis on roots. This phrase taps into that feeling. It suggests that there is a common knowledge we all share. It builds a bridge between the speaker and the audience. It makes the listener feel part of an important mission.
Common Variations
If this phrase feels too stiff, you have options. It is important to remember that is a bit softer. Let's keep in mind that is great for brainstorming. If you want to be very poetic, use Lest we forget. However, that is usually reserved for war memorials. In a text message, just say Don't forget. But if you want to sound persuasive, use the original. It has a rhythmic quality that catches the ear.
Notes d'usage
This phrase carries a high level of authority and is best suited for persuasive speaking or writing. It functions as a transition that signals the most important part of your message is coming next.
The Power of 'We'
By using 'we' instead of 'you,' you make the reminder feel like a shared journey rather than a lecture. It builds rapport instantly.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this phrase for every small detail, it loses its power. Save it for the 'big' points you really want people to remember.
The 'Soft' Command
In English culture, this is a polite way to give a command. You aren't telling people what to do; you are 'reminding' them of what they already know.
Exemples
7We must not forget that our employees are our greatest asset.
We must not forget that our employees are our greatest asset.
Used to remind the team of core values during a financial discussion.
We must not forget that Sarah is allergic to peanuts.
We must not forget that Sarah is allergic to peanuts.
A serious reminder about safety in a group setting.
We must not forget that freedom comes with great responsibility.
We must not forget that freedom comes with great responsibility.
Classic rhetorical use to inspire and unite an audience.
We must not forget that the electricity bill is due tomorrow!
We must not forget that the electricity bill is due tomorrow!
Adds a bit of mock-seriousness to a mundane task.
We must not forget that cake is technically made of flour, which is a plant.
We must not forget that cake is technically made of flour, which is a plant.
Uses a formal structure to tell a joke about 'healthy' eating.
We must not forget that we built this life from nothing.
We must not forget that we built this life from nothing.
Used to evoke shared history and deep emotion.
We must not forget that the client expects the first draft by Monday.
We must not forget that the client expects the first draft by Monday.
Refocuses the team on a critical external requirement.
Teste-toi
Complete the sentence to emphasize the importance of safety during a hiking trip.
___ we must not forget that the weather can change quickly in the mountains.
This phrase is the most effective way to highlight a critical safety fact that the group needs to keep in mind.
Which situation is MOST appropriate for using 'We must not forget that'?
Choose the best context:
The phrase is formal and rhetorical, making it perfect for public speaking and presentations.
🎉 Score : /2
Aides visuelles
Formality Level of 'We must not forget that'
Don't forget...
Don't forget the milk!
Keep in mind that...
Keep in mind that it might rain.
We must not forget that...
We must not forget that our mission is to help people.
Lest we forget...
Lest we forget the sacrifices made.
When to use 'We must not forget that'
Business Meeting
Refocusing on the main project goal.
Public Speech
Highlighting a shared moral value.
Serious Debate
Bringing up a crucial piece of evidence.
Wedding Toast
Reminding guests of the couple's journey.
Team Planning
Ensuring a safety rule is followed.
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsYes, it might sound a bit stiff. With friends, it is better to say Don't forget that or Keep in mind that unless you are being funny.
You can say I must not forget that, but it sounds like you are talking to yourself. We is much more common for presentations.
No, you do not need a comma after that. For example: We must not forget that time is money.
Keep in mind is more neutral and suggestive. We must not forget is stronger and more emphatic.
It is very similar, but must not is stronger than shouldn't. Must not implies it would be a major mistake to forget.
Yes, it is a great way to introduce a core argument or a significant piece of evidence in your writing.
Use a calm, steady tone of voice. Since it uses we, the phrase is already designed to be inclusive rather than attacking.
No, Lest we forget is very old-fashioned. It is almost exclusively used for war memorials or very solemn ceremonies.
Absolutely. It is a powerful way to leave the audience with one final, important thought to carry home.
Only if used for something obvious or trivial. If used for a genuine shared value, it sounds leadership-oriented.
Expressions liées
Keep in mind that
A neutral way to ask someone to consider a specific fact.
Bear in mind that
A slightly more formal version of 'keep in mind'.
It is worth noting that
Used to point out an interesting or relevant detail.
Don't lose sight of
Used to remind someone not to forget the main goal or priority.
Commentaires (0)
Connectez-vous pour CommenterCommencez à apprendre les langues gratuitement
Commence Gratuitement