Which phenomenon describes knowing information but being unable to recall it?

The phenomenon of knowing information but being unable to recall it is best described as retrieval failure. This concept refers to the situation where information is stored in memory but cannot be accessed or retrieved when needed. It highlights the difference between memory storage and retrieval, emphasizing that sometimes our brains may not successfully access the stored information even though we know it exists.

Retrieval failure can be influenced by various factors, such as stress, distraction, or insufficient cues to trigger the memory recall. This is a common experience for many individuals, especially during situations like taking a test or trying to remember someone's name.

The other options relate to aspects of memory but do not specifically capture the essence of knowing information without the ability to access it. For instance, interference suggests that new information can overshadow or disrupt the retrieval of previously learned information, while fading refers to the gradual loss of memory over time. Repression is a psychological concept involving the subconscious blocking of distressing memories. Although each has its own significance in the study of memory, retrieval failure accurately encapsulates the phenomenon of knowing something yet being unable to recall it at a critical moment.