for future generations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for future generations" is correct and usable in written English.
You would typically use it when expressing a desire for something to live on for many years in the future. For example, "We strive to create a better world for future generations to live in."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What'll that do for future generations?

Independent

An interesting subject for future generations.

The Guardian

But will record for future generations.

The New Yorker

We have to protect these parks for future generations".

The New York Times

You can't just pile up debt for future generations".

The Guardian

She now worries about what's in store for future generations.

The Guardian

The Hungarians have a parliamentary commissioner for future generations.

The Guardian

"What are we going to leave for future generations.

The Guardian

And what, if anything, should we leave for future generations?

The New York Times

An instinct to protect the environment for future generations.

The Guardian

The picture for future generations, however, may look quite different".

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for future generations" to frame arguments about long-term planning, environmental conservation, or cultural preservation. For example, "Investing in renewable energy is crucial for future generations."

Common error

While the phrase evokes positive sentiment, avoid using it as a substitute for concrete plans or justifications. Ensure that when you invoke "future generations", you clearly articulate the tangible benefits or consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for future generations" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by indicating purpose or intended beneficiary. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it clarifies who will benefit from or be affected by a particular action or decision.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "for future generations" is a versatile and impactful expression used to emphasize the long-term consequences of present-day actions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts, particularly in discussions about sustainability, legacy, and responsibility. While the phrase is effective in highlighting the importance of long-term thinking, it's crucial to use it with specificity and concrete examples to avoid vagueness. By considering related phrases like "for posterity" and being mindful of potential misuse, you can leverage the power of "for future generations" to advocate for meaningful change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with future generations in mind

Focuses on the thoughtful consideration of future individuals.

for posterity

Focuses on preserving something so that people in the future can remember it.

for the benefit of those who come after

Emphasizes the positive impact on subsequent individuals.

to secure a legacy

Highlights the intent to establish a lasting positive impact.

to create a sustainable future

Emphasizes the creation of future conditions able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.

for the sake of those yet unborn

Evokes a sense of responsibility toward individuals who do not yet exist.

to leave a lasting inheritance

Stresses the act of bequeathing a valuable asset or tradition.

to safeguard for tomorrow

Underscores the action of protecting resources or values.

for subsequent eras

Highlights the continuous and extended impact on future time periods.

for all time

Highlights a sense of permanence or duration.

FAQs

How can I use "for future generations" in a sentence?

Use "for future generations" to emphasize the long-term impact of a decision, action, or policy. For example, "We must protect our national parks "for future generations" to enjoy."

What are some alternatives to saying "for future generations"?

Alternatives include "for posterity", "for the benefit of those who come after", or "to secure a legacy" depending on the context.

What kind of nouns can I use with the prepositional phrase "for future generations"?

Common nouns used with "for future generations" include "resources", "environment", "planet", "world", "benefit", "legacy", "sake", "inheritance", "tomorrow", "eras", "individuals".

How can I make the use of the expression "for future generations" stronger?

To strengthen the phrase, provide specific examples of what is being preserved or protected. For instance, instead of saying "We need to protect our resources for future generations", specify "We need to protect our water resources "for future generations" by reducing pollution and promoting sustainable practices."