make history

USAGE SUMMARY

"make history" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express the meaning of something that is unprecedented, innovative, or transformative. For example, "She became the first woman to climb Mt. Everest, making history in the process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Make history".

The Economist

Can they make history?

The New York Times

"We want to make history.

Independent

Panama make history.

The Guardian - Sport

We make history.

Britannica

To make history.

The New York Times - Sports

She would make history.

The New York Times

Do Machines Make History?

University of California, Berkeley

Do individuals make history?

University of California, Berkeley

You'll make history.

Columbia University

If they succeed, they'll make history.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make history" when you want to emphasize the long-term significance and memorability of an event or achievement. It suggests that the action will be remembered and studied for years to come.

Common error

Avoid using "make history" for minor or insignificant events. Its impact is lessened when applied too broadly. Reserve it for truly remarkable and groundbreaking accomplishments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make history" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often used to describe an action or event that is significant enough to be remembered in historical records. As Ludwig AI suggests, it signifies something groundbreaking, innovative, or transformative.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make history" is a grammatically correct and very common verb phrase used to describe events or achievements of lasting significance. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, the phrase conveys the meaning of groundbreaking, innovative or transformative events. It is most frequently found in News & Media sources, but also appears in Academic and Formal & Business contexts. When using this phrase, it's best to reserve it for truly remarkable accomplishments, avoiding overuse in trivial contexts. Alternative phrases like "achieve greatness" or "leave a legacy" can provide a similar meaning with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

achieve greatness

Focuses on the high quality of accomplishment, implying exceptional merit.

leave a legacy

Emphasizes the lasting impact and remembrance of one's actions.

break new ground

Highlights the innovative aspect of doing something that has not been done before.

set a precedent

Indicates establishing a new standard or example for future actions.

establish a milestone

Points to a significant achievement marking a progression or advancement.

attain immortality

Implies that the action will be remembered forever, securing lasting fame.

become legendary

Suggests that the action will be retold and celebrated like a legend.

rewrite the record books

Indicates surpassing existing achievements and setting new standards.

forge a new path

Emphasizes the creation of a new direction or approach in a particular field.

carve a niche

Focuses on establishing a unique position or identity.

FAQs

How can I use "make history" in a sentence?

You can use "make history" to describe an action or event that is so significant or unprecedented that it will be remembered for a long time. For example, "The team's victory helped them "make history" as the first from their region to win the championship."

What are some alternatives to "make history"?

Alternatives to "make history" include "achieve greatness", "leave a legacy", or "set a precedent", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always positive to "make history"?

While often used in a positive context, "make history" can also apply to negative or controversial events that are remembered for their impact. The key aspect is the lasting significance, regardless of whether it is positive or negative.

What does it mean to say someone will "make history"?

Saying someone will "make history" means you anticipate they will achieve something remarkable and memorable, something that will be noted and remembered by future generations. It implies a significant impact or achievement.