The phrase ‘if my memory serves me right’ is commonly used to express a degree of uncertainty about a recollection. When someone says this, they indicate that they are recalling something from memory, but they are not entirely sure if it’s accurate. It’s a way to hedge a statement, suggesting that the information could be wrong while still conveying what they believe to be true.
For example, one might say, ‘If my memory serves me right, we met at the conference last year.’ This implies that the speaker thinks they remember that meeting, but they are open to correction if they are mistaken. It’s a polite way to discuss uncertain memories, often used in conversations to keep the dialogue friendly and relatable.