built a legacy

USAGE SUMMARY

'built a legacy' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a person's lasting impact on something, e.g. "Martin Luther King Jr. built a legacy of justice and freedom in America."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Shankly and Paisley built a legacy, with full boardroom backing.

The New York Times - Sports

How he built a legacy truly unlike any other".

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Shorter has built a legacy of perpetual flux and the revelations of the unresolved.

The New York Times - Arts

Cole retired in 2008; in his 40 years at Cornell, he built a legacy on campus and in local theater.

Cornell University

In four terms as governor, Mr. Rockefeller had built a legacy of state universities and highways but also of much higher taxes and enormous debt.

The New York Times

George Balanchine The choreographer George Balanchine built a legacy at New York City Ballet and was among those who made New York a ballet capital.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

You can build a legacy off something like that.

The New York Times - Sports

James will be under pressure to build a legacy comparable to that of Jordan or Magic Johnson.

The New York Times - Sports

Now 50, Jacobs feels it is time to build a legacy of his own.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

One year later, the bitter talk has turned to efforts to build a legacy for Jesica.

The New York Times

He has the chance to build a legacy embracing the advancement of human rights.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "built a legacy" to highlight the long-term impact and positive contributions of an individual, group, or organization. It conveys a sense of lasting achievement and influence.

Common error

Avoid using "built a legacy" to describe fleeting successes or short-term gains. The phrase implies a lasting and significant impact over time.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "built a legacy" functions as a verb phrase, often used to describe the act of creating something that has a lasting impact or significance. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage in various contexts, denoting a positive and enduring contribution.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

16%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Science

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "built a legacy" effectively conveys the creation of something lasting and impactful. Ludwig AI validates its correct and widespread use across varied contexts, most notably in news and academic domains. Grammatically sound and semantically rich, the phrase is suitable for emphasizing enduring achievements and contributions. While versatile, avoid using it for fleeting successes. Alternatives like "established a legacy" or "created a lasting impact" can offer nuanced variations. By understanding its implications and usage patterns, writers can effectively communicate the profound and lasting influence of individuals and organizations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

established a legacy

Emphasizes the act of firmly creating a lasting impact.

created a lasting impact

Focuses on the effect of the actions rather than the structure left behind.

left a mark on history

Highlights the historical significance of the achievement.

made a significant contribution

Stresses the importance of the contribution to a specific field or community.

forged a path

Implies innovation and pioneering efforts in creating something new.

shaped the future

Focuses on the long-term influence of the actions.

laid the foundation

Emphasizes the groundwork done for future developments.

pioneered a movement

Highlights the act of starting or leading a significant change.

left an indelible impression

Underscores the unforgettable nature of the impact.

had a transformative effect

Focuses on the significant change brought about by the actions.

FAQs

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

You can use "built a legacy" to describe someone or something that has had a lasting, positive impact. For example, "The scientist "built a legacy" through groundbreaking research that continues to inspire new generations."

What is an alternative to saying "built a legacy"?

Alternatives include "established a legacy", "created a lasting impact", or "left a mark on history" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "built a legacy" to describe a company's impact?

Yes, it is appropriate if the company's actions have had a significant and positive long-term effect. For example, "The company "built a legacy" of innovation and social responsibility."

What distinguishes "built a legacy" from simply being successful?

"Built a legacy" implies that the success has had a lasting, positive impact that extends beyond personal gain or short-term achievements. It signifies a contribution that continues to influence others.