I've noticed myself and there is also scientific evidence behind it that our thinking is contextual and based on associations. Especially it is noticeable for me when Im thinking about my language learning experience. I vividly remember when I heard the expression “ Bedienen Sie sich! “ ( Help yourselves) for the first time. I didn't know the expression but the German speaking woman who worked at our university offered my friend and me food with this words at the student event. We deduced the meaning of the word from the context. I also remember me clearing my throat theatrically while saying in German “ Ich räuspere mich” while trying to remember this word. My friend laughed at me and this scene and the word “ sich räuspern” stayed with me even though many years have passed since then. I also remember reading the article about an experiment conducted by a linguist and neuroscientist that aimed at trying to find out whether gestures can help people to remember better words. If I'm not mistaking the gestures were presented with a particular word in a particular situation. So, it is really interesting area.