a true legacy

USAGE SUMMARY

"a true legacy" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a lasting impression or influence that someone has created. For example, "His commitment to justice has left a true legacy that will be remembered for generations to come."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

It would create a true legacy.

The Guardian - Arts

"This is a true legacy for my husband and all the others who were lost," Ms. Gabrielle said.

The New York Times

And when partnerships come to an end how do partners ensure that the impact is sustained and a true legacy is created?

The Guardian

He was inducted into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame and appointed a member of the Order of Canada, leaving a true legacy as a beloved and well-respected businessperson.

Harvard University

"He is leaving a true legacy as a champion for the children, the families and the economy of this nation," the president said at a Rose Garden bill-signing ceremony.

The New York Times

Of Shine, she says: "It helps to have a founding shareholder who is deeply motivated and deeply invested, not just financially but personally, in the business … If you are going to build a true legacy company you have to have that long-term view … I'm not leaving in 12 months' time".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

There is little desire to deal with a growing deficit, and everybody but Mr. Stroger wants to ditch his only true legacy, a 1-cent increase in the sales tax, raising it above a dime on the dollar.

The New York Times

Immortalising Beckham raises a debate over his true legacy at the LA Galaxy and whether other club legends should have been recognised before the Englishman.

The Guardian - Sport

It's time they became a part of the true legacy of September 11th in this country − the legacy of service.

Huffington Post

But, such lists are folly Bob's true legacy as a colleague and friend would require a list of hundreds of names, from across the years and around the world.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Sut Lovingood and Jon Stewart notwithstanding, if the media had done a little homework on the true legacy of Appalachia, they have might had the chance to take a more profound look at the region's voters.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a true legacy", ensure that the context clearly defines what makes the legacy 'true' or authentic. Provide specific examples or details to support this claim.

Common error

Avoid using "a true legacy" when the impact is minor or short-lived. Reserve this phrase for instances where the influence is substantial and enduring.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a true legacy" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig examples show it describing the lasting impact of individuals, events, or actions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a true legacy" is a noun phrase that highlights a significant and enduring impact. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, media, and academic writing. While not extremely common, it carries substantial weight when used appropriately. Related phrases such as "an enduring heritage" or "a lasting contribution" offer alternative ways to express similar ideas. When using "a true legacy", ensure that the context clearly defines what makes the legacy 'true' and that the impact is genuinely significant. By avoiding overuse and providing specific examples, you can effectively convey the profound and lasting influence of the subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

An enduring heritage

Replaces "legacy" with "heritage" and "true" with "enduring", focusing on the aspect of long-lasting impact.

A lasting contribution

Substitutes "legacy" with "contribution", shifting the focus to the act of giving or providing something valuable.

A significant imprint

Uses "imprint" instead of "legacy" to highlight the lasting mark or effect left behind.

A permanent mark

Emphasizes the idea of something indelible and unchangeable, like a lasting influence.

A monumental impact

Replaces "true" with "monumental" to amplify the scale and importance of the effect.

A noteworthy inheritance

Focuses on what is passed down or left behind, using "inheritance" as a substitute for "legacy".

A remarkable achievement

Shifts the focus to the accomplishment itself, suggesting that the legacy is the result of something well done.

An unforgettable mark

Uses "unforgettable mark" to stress the memorable and impactful nature of the legacy.

A substantial heritage

Emphasizes the size and importance of what is inherited or left behind.

A genuine impact

Replaces "true" with "genuine" to express the authenticity and sincerity of the lasting effect.

FAQs

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

You can use "a true legacy" to describe the lasting impact or influence of someone or something. For example, "Her dedication to environmental conservation is "a true legacy" that will benefit future generations."

What's a good alternative to saying "a true legacy"?

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

What distinguishes "a true legacy" from a simple 'legacy'?

The addition of "true" emphasizes the authenticity, significance, and lasting impact of the legacy. It suggests that the legacy is genuine and has had a profound effect.

Is it appropriate to use "a true legacy" in formal writing?

Yes, "a true legacy" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing someone's profound and enduring contributions or impact. The key is to ensure the context supports the claim of a significant and authentic legacy.