legend

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "legend" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a traditional story or a person who is famous for their achievements, often in a specific field. Example: "The legend of King Arthur has been told for centuries, captivating audiences with tales of bravery and chivalry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Music

Travel

Film

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Each bill was printed with the legend "money as speech silences us all".

The Guardian - Opinion

Yet none of this seems to diminish the Kennedy legend; it only enhances it.

The Guardian

A big name and big game player and already a legend but lifting the continent's biggest prize in Sydney would be something else.

The Guardian - Sport

It features covers of Smog and Robert Johnson, and was produced by XL boss Richard Russell (who tracked the American legend down to Rikers Island prison to ensure it was made).

The Guardian - Music

However, it is the inn's connection to Gram Parsons that links Joshua Tree irrevocably to rock'n'roll legend.

The Guardian - Travel

Standing on the edge of town, the museum Shear Outback pays homage to the work of shearers, a more common Australian legend than the migrant grower of the irrigation towns.

The Guardian

All kinds of things happen there – in Clarksdale, Mississippi, blues legend and in many people's eyes the father of popular music, Robert Johnson, supposedly sold his soul to the devil.

The Guardian - Music

Thirteen seasons later, he's up there with the Detroit legend, just 189 hits behind Cobb and 256 behind the all-time hit king, Pete Rose – albeit with the asterisk.

The Guardian - Sport

Brando's arrival on set unprepared and overweight, necessitating his being shot only from certain angles in dim lighting, has now been incorporated into film-making legend, described in George Hickenlooper and Fax Bahr's documentary Hearts of Darkness: A Film-maker's Apocalypse.

The Guardian - Film

Sparks is still maintaining the L7 legend on her own terms.

The Guardian - Music

The jewel in the crown is the waterfall at Janet's Foss and its secret cave, which local legend claims is home to the Fairy Queen.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "legend" to add depth and resonance to narratives, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of the subject.

Common error

Avoid labeling someone a "legend" prematurely or for insignificant achievements. The term should be reserved for individuals with substantial and lasting impact.

Linguistic Context

The word "legend" primarily functions as a noun, referring to a traditional story or a person of remarkable achievements. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Sport

20%

Music

15%

Less common in

Travel

10%

Film

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "legend" is a versatile noun used to describe both traditional stories and individuals of exceptional achievement. Ludwig's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, including News & Media, Sport, Music, and Film. While synonyms like "myth" or "icon" exist, "legend" carries a distinct connotation of admiration and enduring impact. To ensure effective communication, reserve the term for truly remarkable subjects and stories. According to Ludwig, the aiResponseStatus is RESPONSE_YES, it means that the phrase is correct and can be used in writting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Myth

Focuses on the fictional or traditional aspect, often of ancient origin.

Hero

Focuses on bravery and admirable qualities.

Tale

Implies a narrative, often with exaggerated or imaginative elements.

Icon

Refers to a person widely admired and recognized.

Fable

Highlights a moral or lesson conveyed through a story.

Luminary

Emphasizes brilliance and influence in a particular field.

Saga

Suggests a long and complex series of events or a heroic narrative.

Superstar

Highlights widespread fame and popularity.

Prodigy

Highlights exceptional talent or skill at a young age.

Hall of famer

Specifically denotes inclusion in a group of highly accomplished individuals in a particular field.

FAQs

How can I use the word "legend" in a sentence?

You can use "legend" to refer to a famous person: "He is a true "legend" in the music industry". Alternatively, it can refer to a traditional story: "The "legend" of King Arthur is well-known".

What's the difference between "legend" and "myth"?

"Legend" often implies a kernel of truth or historical basis, while "myth" is usually entirely fictional or symbolic. A "legend" might be based on real events, embellished over time; a "myth" is a traditional story without a basis in reality.

What can I say instead of calling someone a "legend"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "icon", "luminary", "hero", or "superstar". Each of these carries a slightly different nuance.

Is it appropriate to use "legend" in formal writing?

Yes, "legend" can be used in formal writing, especially when referring to historical figures or significant cultural narratives. However, consider the specific context and ensure the term accurately reflects the subject's status.