what it leaves

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what it leaves" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the consequences or results of a particular action or situation. Example: "We need to consider what it leaves behind in terms of environmental impact."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Each is self-contained and neatly tells its story not only by what it says, but, equally powerfully, by what it leaves out — and by its juxtaposition, or syncopation, with its neighbors.

The New York Times - Books

Its strength lies in what it leaves out just as much as what it puts in, if not more.

The Guardian - Books

What it leaves us with is theatre that reflects its own time rather than the idea of some hallowed past.

The Guardian

"It's what it leaves behind.

The Guardian

"No" has also been criticized for what it leaves out.

The New York Times

The program is weak mostly in what it leaves out.

The New York Times - Arts

What's more, "True Believers" is extremely arbitrary in what it leaves in and what it leaves out.

The New York Times - Books

But the problem is not what it takes when it eats, but what it leaves behind.

The Economist

Faye's account — all revulsion and affront — is striking for what it leaves out.

The New Yorker

The movie is frustratingly arbitrary in what it shows and what it leaves out.

The New York Times

But in fact "Letters Home" is remarkable not for what it leaves out about Hughes but for what it leaves in.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using stronger verbs or more specific nouns to describe the nature of what is being left behind. For example, instead of "what it leaves", consider "the damage it inflicts" or "the progress it establishes".

Common error

Avoid using "what it leaves" without a clear antecedent. Readers should immediately understand what "it" refers to. If the antecedent is not obvious, rephrase for clarity, or you may confuse your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what it leaves" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As noted by Ludwig, it describes the consequences, results, or remnants of an action or event. Examples show it used to discuss impacts, legacies, and other lasting effects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "what it leaves" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, particularly in news and media. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to emphasize the consequences or lasting effects of an action or event. While alternatives exist, "what it leaves" provides a direct and effective way to highlight the resulting impact. When using this phrase, ensure the antecedent is clear and consider the specific nuance you wish to convey to maximize clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the impact it has

Refers to the direct effect or influence exerted on something.

the consequences it entails

Emphasizes the logical results or effects that follow an action or event.

the aftermath it creates

Focuses on the immediate period following an event and its specific creations.

the outcome it yields

Concentrates on the final result or product achieved.

the remains it yields

Focuses on the physical or metaphorical remnants that are left behind.

the legacy it generates

Highlights the long-term impact and the lasting results created.

the impression it makes

Focuses on the subjective effect or mark left on observers or participants.

the residue it produces

Specifically points to the tangible or intangible remains after a process.

the footprint it establishes

Highlights the mark left behind as a measure of activity or impact.

the trail it blazes

Emphasizes the path or direction established as a result of actions.

FAQs

How can I use "what it leaves" in a sentence?

You can use "what it leaves" to discuss the consequences or effects of an event, action, or situation. For example, "Consider "what it leaves behind" in terms of environmental impact" or "The discussion focused on "what it leaves behind" for future generations".

What are some alternatives to "what it leaves"?

Some alternatives include "the consequences it entails", "the impact it has", or "the residue it produces", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does "what it leaves" differ from "what is left"?

"What it leaves" usually refers to the results or consequences of an action, while "what is left" refers to the physical or tangible remains. The first focuses on impact, the second on remnants.

Is it better to use "what it leaves behind" or just "what it leaves"?

Both are grammatically correct. "What it leaves behind" often emphasizes the lasting nature of the consequences, while "what it leaves" is a more general reference to the immediate impact.