a significant legacy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a significant legacy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the lasting impact or contributions of a person, organization, or event. Example: "The scientist left behind a significant legacy in the field of environmental research that continues to influence new generations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

If he had been only an importer, Mr. Lynch would have left a significant legacy.

The New York Times - Food

But even if it agrees, he said, the measurement will be a landmark, in the books for years, "a significant legacy for future generations".

The New York Times - Science

Her lasting influence will be as a collaborator, but she was a major contributor to the collaboration, and that's a significant legacy".

The New York Times

Though often overlooked in general accounts of the wartime Congress's achievements, the False Claims Act remains a significant legacy of the era.

The New York Times

"Securing stronger pay growth through productivity enhancing policy measures will be a key test of today's budget if it is to have a significant legacy on the labour market".

The Guardian - Business

His appointment as Attorney General gives him a chance to harness these conflicting roles in a way that may leave a significant legacy, reflecting his place at the far right of the American mainstream.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Did Diana really leave any significant legacy, and if so, what is it?

The Guardian

They left as quickly as they came, leaving little time to establish any significant legacy.

BBC

As for the more than 80 recordings that followed, no musician of the last half century has left a more significant legacy.

The New York Times - Arts

Chailly leaves an enormously significant legacy with the Leipzigers in the 10 years he has been there – especially in his visionary re-thinkings of the symphonies of Beethoven and Brahms, and his departure creates a vacancy that the world's maestros will be queuing up to fill.

The Guardian - Music

We are actively managing down a slate of significant legacy issues.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a significant legacy", consider the specific area or field in which the impact is being made to add clarity and depth to your statement. For example, 'a significant legacy in environmental conservation' provides more context than just 'a significant legacy'.

Common error

Avoid using "a significant legacy" to describe impacts that are temporary or superficial. Ensure the legacy has a lasting and meaningful effect to justify the term.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a significant legacy" functions as a noun phrase, where "significant" modifies the noun "legacy". According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and used to denote the lasting impact or contribution of an individual, event, or entity. The examples provided by Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

19%

Science

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a significant legacy" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a lasting impact or contribution. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's most commonly found in news media, encyclopedias and scientific contexts. While versatile, it's crucial to ensure that the "legacy" is truly significant and enduring, not merely a temporary effect. Consider using alternative phrases like "a lasting contribution" or "an important heritage" to fine-tune the nuance. Remember to specify the domain or area of impact to enhance clarity and relevance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an important heritage

Replaces "legacy" with "heritage", emphasizing inheritance and tradition rather than impact.

a substantial impact

Focuses on the degree of influence rather than the long-term aspect of a legacy.

a lasting contribution

Highlights the act of giving or adding to something, rather than the overall result.

an enduring effect

Emphasizes the continuation of an effect over time.

a notable imprint

Uses a metaphor to describe a lasting mark or impression.

a profound influence

Stresses the depth and intensity of the impact.

a remarkable achievement

Focuses on accomplishment and success rather than lasting influence.

a considerable endowment

Implies a gift or resource passed down, specifically referring to contribution of assets.

a meaningful inheritance

Highlights the aspect of something being received or passed on.

a powerful tradition

Emphasizes the handing down of beliefs or customs.

FAQs

How can I use "a significant legacy" in a sentence?

You can use "a significant legacy" to describe the lasting impact or contributions of a person, event, or organization. For example: "The scientist left "a significant legacy" in the field of environmental research".

What is a good substitute for "a significant legacy"?

Alternatives to "a significant legacy" include "an important heritage", "a lasting contribution", or "an enduring effect", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "a significant legacy" and "a notable achievement"?

"A significant legacy" refers to the long-term impact and influence of someone's work, while "a notable achievement" focuses on a specific accomplishment. A legacy is broader and encompasses the overall effect of actions over time.

Is it appropriate to use "a significant legacy" to describe a negative impact?

While "a significant legacy" is often used to describe positive impacts, it can also be used to refer to negative consequences. The key is to ensure that the impact is substantial and lasting. For example, "The war left "a significant legacy" of social and economic disruption".