leave a legacy

USAGE SUMMARY

"leave a legacy" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to talk about creating something that will remain in one's absence, e.g. "She wanted to leave a legacy of generosity and compassion for future generations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"I wanted to leave a legacy".

The New York Times

"I want to leave a legacy.

The New York Times

She did, however, leave a legacy.

The New Yorker

The second is to leave a legacy.

Independent

Ms. LeFavour will leave a legacy.

The New York Times

Boomers want to leave a legacy.

The New York Times

"They said they would leave a legacy.

The Guardian

Maybe we'll leave a legacy of improvements behind.

The New York Times

Few journalists leave a legacy, but Joe will leave several.

The New Yorker

"You're going to leave a legacy, you know".

The New York Times

"The second one is to leave a legacy.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to inspire or motivate others, use "leave a legacy" to emphasize the importance of long-term impact and contribution.

Common error

Don't limit the idea of "leave a legacy" to grand, world-changing acts. Small, consistent contributions can also create a meaningful and lasting impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leave a legacy" primarily functions as a verb phrase + noun construction. It describes the act of creating something of lasting value or significance that remains after one's departure or death. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is a common and usable expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "leave a legacy" is a common and accepted expression used to describe the act of creating a lasting impact that remains after one's departure. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage. Analysis of various sources, primarily from News & Media, reveals its neutral register and suitability for diverse contexts. While the phrase is grammatically straightforward, it's essential to consider the scope of one's intended legacy, focusing not only on grand gestures but also on consistent, meaningful contributions. Related phrases like "create a lasting impact" and "make a difference" offer similar, though nuanced, ways to express this concept.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leave one's mark

Indicates making a noticeable impact or impression, whether positive or negative, differing from the intentionality of creating a legacy.

have a lasting effect

Highlights the enduring consequences of actions or creations, focusing less on intentional legacy.

create a lasting impact

Focuses on the effect of one's actions rather than the inheritance of something tangible or intangible.

make a difference in the world

Emphasizes positive change and broad influence, shifting focus from personal legacy to global contribution.

shape the future

Highlights the act of influencing upcoming events or generations, differing from leaving a more defined personal inheritance.

build a monument

Implies a lasting structure or creation, often physical, that commemorates someone or something.

contribute to posterity

Stresses giving to future generations, often through charitable acts or creations.

establish a tradition

Centers around creating a custom or practice that continues over time, distinct from a personal legacy.

set an example

Refers to behavior that serves as a model for others to follow, primarily focusing on moral or ethical guidance.

immortalize oneself

Connotes achieving lasting fame or recognition, often through artistic or heroic endeavors.

FAQs

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

You can use "leave a legacy" to express a desire to create something that will last beyond your lifetime. For instance, "She wanted to "leave a legacy" of kindness and generosity".

What does it mean to "leave a legacy"?

To "leave a legacy" means to create a lasting impact or contribution that will be remembered and valued by future generations.

What can I say instead of "leave a legacy"?

You can use alternatives like "create a lasting impact", "make a difference", or "establish a tradition" depending on the context.

Is it better to "leave a legacy" or "leave one's mark"?

Both phrases refer to making an impact, but "leave a legacy" implies a more intentional and lasting contribution, while "leave one's mark" simply means to make a noticeable impression, whether positive or negative.