left a legacy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "left a legacy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a situation in which someone has left a positive influence that will be remembered and appreciated for a long time. For example, "The late, great humanitarian activist left a legacy of compassion and peace that will be remembered for generations to come."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The end of iconoclasm (843) left a legacy of faction.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And it left a legacy of bitterness and ruined reputations.

The New York Times - Arts

Rose has left a legacy that few cooks achieve.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Wales's industrial past has left a legacy of chronic disease.

The Guardian

She'd retired by that point but she'd left a legacy.

The Guardian

She has left a legacy in her children and grandchildren.

The New York Times

He left a legacy of concern, thoughtfulness and compassion.

The New York Times

The bankers have left a legacy on the football field.

The Guardian

He was a scholar who left a legacy through publications.

The New York Times

He left a legacy in science that cannot be erased.

The New York Times

He has left a legacy of friends and family.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "left a legacy", consider specifying the nature of the legacy to provide a clearer understanding of the impact. For example, "left a legacy of innovation" or "left a legacy of environmental stewardship".

Common error

Avoid using "left a legacy" for minor or insignificant contributions. Reserve it for actions or achievements that have a demonstrably lasting and positive impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "left a legacy" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the act of creating a lasting impact or contribution. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. Ludwig examples show various contexts where individuals or events have "left a legacy".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

7%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "left a legacy" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the lasting impact of someone or something, according to Ludwig. It is frequently used in news and media, as well as encyclopedic and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the nature and significance of the legacy to avoid overstatement. Related phrases include "made a lasting impact" and "had a significant influence". Ludwig's examples illustrate the diverse contexts in which this phrase can be applied, highlighting its versatility and widespread usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Passed on a legacy

Focuses on transmission rather than the creation of the legacy itself.

Left behind a heritage

Emphasizes what was left after someone's passing.

Made a lasting impact

Focuses on the effect rather than the inheritance.

Had a significant influence

Emphasizes the power to affect something without necessarily implying a planned inheritance.

Brought enduring change

Highlights the transformative aspect of the contribution.

Created a lasting impression

Focuses on the memory or perception that remains.

Established a tradition

Focuses specifically on the creation of a continuing practice.

Bequeathed a heritage

More formal, emphasizing what is passed down to future generations.

Set a precedent

Implies establishing a standard for future actions or decisions.

Endowed future generations

Highlights the aspect of providing something of value.

FAQs

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

You can use "left a legacy" to describe the lasting impact of someone's actions or contributions. For example, "Her dedication to education /s/left+a+legacy of opportunity for countless students".

What are some alternatives to saying "left a legacy"?

Alternatives include "made a lasting impact", "had a significant influence", or "passed on a legacy", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What kind of legacy can someone leave?

A legacy can be a positive or negative impact that lasts for a long time. Examples include a legacy of innovation, a legacy of debt, or a legacy of social change. It depends on the consequences of the actions in question.

Is it appropriate to use "left a legacy" when someone is still alive?

While typically used in the context of someone who has passed away, "left a legacy" can also be used to describe the ongoing impact of someone still living, particularly if they have already made significant contributions that will endure. For example, "Even though she is still working, she has already /s/left+a+legacy in her field".