building a legacy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "building a legacy" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing the impact or contributions someone makes that will be remembered in the future. Example: "She dedicated her life to building a legacy of kindness and generosity." Alternative expressions include "creating a legacy" and "establishing a legacy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Mr. Perry isn't openly building a legacy.

The New York Times

"We feel like we're building a legacy right now".

The New York Times

"You try to convince the kids they can be part of building a legacy".

The New York Times - Sports

Nelson's work ethic hasn't necessarily paid off commercially — his albums have been modest sellers — but he's building a legacy.

The New Yorker

New groups of students have come forward to take the lead next year, building a legacy for the future.

The Guardian

But he is building a legacy that matters and is helping to change the template for what an American orchestra can be.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

"This is what all this is about – building a lasting legacy for the area".

The Guardian

The company achieved 66% growth last year, building a lasting legacy of recurring revenue from customers on consultancy retainers.

The Guardian

Faced with the difficulties of building a real legacy in sport, tourism and transport, fewer nations seek to host the Games.

The Guardian - Opinion

Whatever the outcome on Saturday, a bigger challenge lies ahead - building a lasting legacy back home to make sure the USA's accomplishments are not wasted.

BBC

"We are proud to be part of building a lasting legacy for the east end of Glasgow and bringing job opportunities into the area".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "building a legacy", consider specifying the type of legacy you aim to create (e.g., a legacy of innovation, a legacy of service).

Common error

Avoid using "building a legacy" when referring to short-term achievements. A legacy implies a long-lasting impact that extends beyond immediate gains.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "building a legacy" functions as a noun phrase often used as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes the act of creating something that will last and be remembered, like a positive impact or contribution.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Formal & Business

21%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "building a legacy" is a common and grammatically correct expression signifying the creation of a lasting positive impact. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's widely used in news, business, and similar contexts to convey ambition and long-term responsibility. To use the phrase effectively, consider specifying the type of legacy you intend to create, and avoid applying it to short-term achievements. Alternatives like "creating a lasting impact" or "establishing a heritage" can offer nuanced meanings. By understanding its proper use and related concepts, you can effectively communicate your commitment to making a difference.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

creating a lasting impact

Focuses on the effect rather than the tangible result.

establishing a heritage

Emphasizes the transmittal of values and traditions.

laying the foundation for future generations

Highlights the preparatory aspect of the actions taken.

shaping a future

Focuses on influencing the direction of events to come.

leaving a mark on the world

Underscores the lasting influence on society.

cultivating a tradition

Suggests a gradual and nurturing process.

forging a path for others

Highlights the pioneering and guiding aspect.

making a difference

Emphasizes the positive change brought about by actions.

creating a memorial

Focuses on remembering and honoring past achievements.

crafting a lasting name

Highlights the act of shaping or creating something memorable.

FAQs

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

You can use "building a legacy" to describe actions or efforts aimed at creating a lasting impact or positive change that will be remembered in the future. For example, "She is dedicated to "building a legacy" of environmental conservation".

What are some alternatives to "building a legacy"?

Alternatives include "creating a lasting impact", "establishing a heritage", or "leaving a mark on the world", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What does it mean to focus on "building a legacy"?

Focusing on "building a legacy" means prioritizing actions and decisions that will have a significant and positive impact on future generations or the long-term success of an organization or cause. It involves thinking beyond immediate goals and considering the broader, lasting consequences of one's efforts.

How does "building a legacy" differ from simply achieving success?

"Building a legacy" emphasizes the enduring impact of one's actions and contributions, while achieving success often focuses on immediate accomplishments or personal gain. A legacy is about what you leave behind, while success is about what you achieve in the present.