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B1 noun #46 よく出る 15分で読める

legacy

上位46

At the A1 level, the word 'legacy' might be a bit difficult because it is an abstract idea. However, you can think of it in a very simple way: it is a gift from someone who lived before you. Imagine your grandfather gives you his old watch. That watch is a 'legacy.' It is something from the past that you have now. In A1 English, we usually talk about simple things like 'a gift' or 'money from family.' 'Legacy' is a more special word for these things. It means the gift is important because of the person who gave it. You might hear it in stories about kings and queens who leave their kingdoms to their children. Even though it is a big word, you can remember it by thinking of 'a special gift from the past.' You don't need to use it often at this level, but if you see it, just think: 'This is something old that is still here today.' It is like a bridge between an old person and a young person. For example, 'The old man left a legacy to his grandson.' This means he gave him something important to remember him by. It is a beautiful word about family and history.

At the A2 level, you can start to understand 'legacy' as more than just a physical object. It is something—like money, a house, or even a way of doing things—that comes from the past. When someone dies, they might leave a 'legacy' to their family. This could be a lot of money to help them buy a house. But it can also be a 'legacy of kindness.' This means the person was very kind, and now their family tries to be kind too. You will see this word in simple history books. For example, 'The Romans left a legacy of good roads.' This means the Romans built roads a long time ago, and we still use or remember them today. It is a way to talk about how the past affects the present. You can use it when talking about your family traditions. 'My grandmother's legacy is her secret soup recipe.' This shows that the recipe is a special gift from her. At this level, try to use 'legacy' when you want to talk about something important that lasts for a long time. It is a step up from just saying 'gift' or 'tradition.' It sounds more serious and respectful.

At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'legacy' to describe both tangible and intangible things. A legacy is something valuable passed down through generations. It often refers to an inheritance, such as money or property, but it is frequently used to describe a person's lasting impact or reputation. For example, a famous leader might leave a legacy of peace. This means that because of their work, the country is now peaceful. You can also use it in a more negative way, like a 'legacy of debt' or a 'legacy of problems.' This means the past has left difficult things for people today to deal with. In business, you might hear about 'legacy systems,' which are old computers or software that a company still uses. This is a very common professional use of the word. At this level, you should understand that a legacy is about the 'mark' someone leaves on the world. When you write or speak, you can use 'legacy' to talk about the long-term results of an action. For instance, 'The Olympic Games left a legacy of new sports facilities in the city.' This means the city has good buildings now because the games happened there in the past. It is a very useful word for discussing history, biography, and social issues.

At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of 'legacy.' You should recognize that it is not just about what is left behind, but how that 'something' is perceived and managed by the current generation. A legacy can be a source of pride, a responsibility, or even a burden. For example, you might discuss the 'colonial legacy' of a country, which involves complex social, economic, and political structures that continue to influence the nation today. You should be comfortable using the word in academic and professional contexts. In a business essay, you might write about a founder's legacy of innovation and how it shapes the company's current culture. You should also be aware of specific terms like 'legacy admissions' in universities or 'legacy code' in software development. At this level, you can use 'legacy' to explore themes of continuity and change. You might say, 'The artist's legacy is not just her paintings, but the way she inspired a whole new movement in modern art.' This shows you understand that a legacy can be an intellectual or creative influence. You should also be able to distinguish 'legacy' from similar words like 'heritage' (which is more about collective culture) and 'inheritance' (which is more about individual property). Using 'legacy' correctly at this level demonstrates a high degree of vocabulary sophistication.

At the C1 level, your use of 'legacy' should reflect an appreciation for its deep historical and philosophical implications. You should be able to analyze the 'legacy' of complex historical periods, such as the Enlightenment or the Industrial Revolution, discussing both their positive advancements and their problematic consequences. You might use the word to describe the 'enduring legacy' of a philosophical idea or a legal principle. In professional discourse, you would use 'legacy' to discuss long-term strategic impacts. For instance, a CEO might be concerned with their 'professional legacy,' focusing on the sustainable growth and ethical standards they leave behind. You should also be able to use the word in more creative or metaphorical ways, such as 'the legacy of a failed relationship' or 'the legacy of a childhood spent in nature.' At this level, you understand that a legacy is a narrative constructed by the survivors as much as it is a gift left by the deceased. You can discuss how legacies are 'reclaimed,' 'reinterpreted,' or 'contested' by different groups of people. Your vocabulary should include related terms like 'bequest,' 'patrimony,' and 'aftermath,' and you should know exactly when 'legacy' is the most powerful choice. You can use it to add gravitas to your writing, signaling that you are discussing matters of lasting importance and historical weight.

At the C2 level, 'legacy' is a tool for sophisticated cultural and historical critique. You can use it to deconstruct the ways in which the past is used to legitimize or challenge the present. You might write about the 'problematic legacy' of historical figures, exploring the tension between their achievements and their moral failings. You should be able to handle the word in highly technical contexts, such as 'legacy data migration' in enterprise architecture or 'legacy costs' in corporate restructuring, with total precision. Your understanding of the word should encompass its etymological roots and its evolution in various fields, from law to computer science to social justice. You can use 'legacy' to engage in high-level debates about 'intergenerational justice'—the idea that we have a duty to leave a positive legacy for those who come after us. You might explore the 'digital legacy' of the human race in the age of big data, or the 'environmental legacy' of the Anthropocene. At this level, 'legacy' is not just a word; it is a conceptual framework for understanding the human condition across time. You can use it with subtle irony or profound sincerity, tailoring its impact to the most demanding audiences. Your mastery of 'legacy' allows you to weave together personal, professional, and global narratives, showing how every action we take contributes to the complex, unfolding story of humanity.

練習する例文メモとヒント

legacy 30秒で

A legacy is something valuable, like money, property, or a lasting impact, that is passed down from one generation to the next through inheritance or tradition.
It can refer to tangible gifts left in a will or intangible things like a person's reputation, values, and the long-term influence of their actions.
In technology, 'legacy' describes older systems or software that are still in use, often because they are difficult to replace despite being outdated.
The word is commonly used in history, politics, and sports to evaluate the enduring significance and historical footprint of a person or event.

The word legacy is a multifaceted noun that describes something handed down from the past. While many people immediately think of money or property left in a will, the concept of a legacy is far broader and more profound. It encompasses the intangible footprints we leave on the world, the traditions we uphold, and the impact our actions have on future generations. In a historical context, a legacy might be the democratic systems left by ancient civilizations or the architectural wonders of a bygone era. In a personal context, it might be the kindness a parent showed their children, which those children then pass on to their own offspring. The term is frequently used in discussions about leadership, where a person's legacy is the sum of their achievements and the long-term effects of their decisions. Whether it is a positive legacy of peace and innovation or a negative legacy of conflict and debt, the word always implies a connection between the past, the present, and the future.

The Financial Definition: In legal and financial terms, a legacy is a gift of property or money through a will. This is often called a bequest. It represents the tangible assets that an individual chooses to distribute after their death to support loved ones or charitable causes.
The Abstract Definition: Abstractly, a legacy is the non-material impact a person or group has on the world. This includes reputation, influence, shared values, and the memories held by others. It is the 'story' that remains when the person is no longer present.

The scientist's greatest legacy was not his wealth, but the cure he discovered for a rare disease.

People use this word when they want to emphasize the long-term significance of an event or a life. For instance, when a famous athlete retires, sports commentators often debate their legacy, looking at their records, their sportsmanship, and how they changed the game for future players. In politics, a president's legacy is evaluated based on the laws they passed and the social changes they initiated. The word carries a weight of permanence; it is not about a fleeting moment of success, but about what lasts. Furthermore, the term has found a place in technology, where 'legacy systems' refer to old computer systems or software that are still in use because they are difficult to replace, despite being outdated. This usage highlights the idea of something from the past continuing to influence the present, even if it presents challenges.

She wanted to leave a legacy of environmental protection by planting thousands of trees.

Cultural Heritage: Societies have collective legacies, such as art, music, and language. These are the treasures of human history that define our identity and provide a sense of continuity across centuries.

In modern discourse, we also talk about 'digital legacy.' This refers to the vast amount of data, social media profiles, and online content we leave behind. Managing a digital legacy has become a significant concern in the 21st century, as families must decide what to do with the online presence of a deceased loved one. This evolution of the word shows how it adapts to the changing ways we live and interact. Ultimately, whether we are talking about a family heirloom, a political movement, or a line of code, a legacy is about the endurance of human effort and the desire to be remembered. It is a word that invites reflection on our values and the mark we wish to leave on the world.

The Roman Empire left a legacy of law and engineering that still influences Europe today.

Using the word legacy correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a countable noun. It is most often used with verbs like 'leave,' 'build,' 'inherit,' or 'protect.' When you 'leave a legacy,' you are performing actions that will have a lasting effect. When you 'inherit a legacy,' you are receiving something—be it money or a reputation—from a predecessor. The word can be modified by a wide range of adjectives to specify the nature of the impact. For example, a 'lasting legacy' suggests something that will endure for a very long time, while a 'complicated legacy' implies that the person's impact was a mix of good and bad. In more formal or technical settings, 'legacy' can act as an attributive noun, modifying another noun, such as in 'legacy software' or 'legacy costs.'

Common Verb Pairings: 1. To leave a legacy: 'He left a legacy of kindness.'
2. To build a legacy: 'She is working hard to build a legacy in the tech industry.'
3. To tarnish a legacy: 'The scandal threatened to tarnish the athlete's legacy.'

The philanthropist's legacy includes several hospitals and libraries that serve the poor.

When constructing sentences, consider whether the legacy is positive or negative. While the word often has a positive connotation of achievement, it can also describe the lingering effects of trauma or failure. For instance, 'The war left a legacy of bitterness and distrust between the two nations.' Here, the legacy is a burden rather than a gift. In academic writing, you might discuss the 'colonial legacy' of a region, referring to the social and economic structures left behind by former ruling powers. This demonstrates the word's utility in describing complex historical phenomena. It is also important to note that 'legacy' is usually singular when referring to a person's overall impact, but can be pluralized when referring to specific gifts or distinct impacts: 'The museum received several legacies from wealthy donors this year.'

Many families struggle with the legacy of debt left by previous generations.

Adjective Modifiers: - Enduring legacy: A legacy that lasts for a very long time.
- Cultural legacy: The traditions and arts of a society.
- Bitter legacy: A negative impact characterized by anger or resentment.

In the context of technology, 'legacy' is used to describe older systems. For example, 'The company is still using a legacy database that is not compatible with modern software.' In this case, 'legacy' implies that the system is an inheritance from an earlier time in the company's history. It is often used with a slightly negative nuance, suggesting that the old system is a hindrance to progress. However, in most other contexts, 'legacy' is a word of high honor. To speak of someone's legacy is to acknowledge that their life had meaning beyond their own years. When you write about legacy, you are writing about the thread of human continuity. Use it to elevate your descriptions of people's work, influence, and the lasting marks they leave on the world.

The author's legacy is preserved in the millions of readers who continue to find comfort in her stories.

You will encounter the word legacy in a variety of real-world settings, ranging from formal legal proceedings to casual conversations about sports and history. In the legal world, lawyers and estate planners use 'legacy' to refer to specific bequests in a will. If you are ever involved in settling an estate, you might hear about 'charitable legacies' or 'pecuniary legacies' (gifts of money). This is the most traditional and literal use of the word. In the news, particularly in political analysis, journalists frequently discuss the legacy of a departing leader. They analyze how the leader's policies will affect the country in the decades to come. You might hear a news anchor say, 'The president's legacy will be defined by his healthcare reforms.' This usage shifts the focus from money to influence and historical standing.

In Sports Media: Commentators often talk about an athlete's 'legacy' when they are nearing retirement. They compare the athlete's career to the greats of the past, asking if their legacy is one of dominance or if it was marred by controversy.

The documentary explored the legacy of the civil rights movement in modern America.

In the business and technology sectors, 'legacy' has a very specific and common meaning. You will hear IT professionals talk about 'legacy systems' or 'legacy code.' In this context, it refers to outdated technology that is still in use. A company might say, 'We need to migrate our data from the legacy system to the cloud.' Here, the word carries a sense of being an obstacle or a relic of the past that must be managed. However, in corporate leadership, 'legacy' is used more positively to describe the culture and values established by a company's founder. A CEO might speak about 'honoring the legacy of innovation' that the company was built upon. This shows the word's versatility in describing both technical debt and cultural wealth.

The university's legacy admissions policy has been a subject of intense public debate.

In Family Life: Families use the word to talk about traditions and stories. A grandmother might say, 'I want to leave a legacy of love for my grandchildren,' referring to the values and memories she hopes they will carry forward.

Finally, you will hear 'legacy' in environmental and social justice contexts. Activists often talk about the 'legacy of pollution' or the 'legacy of inequality.' In these cases, the word is used to describe long-standing problems that were created in the past but continue to harm people today. It highlights the responsibility of the present generation to address the mistakes of the past. Whether it is used in a courtroom, a locker room, a server room, or a living room, 'legacy' is a powerful word that forces us to look at the long-term consequences of human life and activity. It is a word that connects us to our ancestors and to our descendants, making it a staple of serious and reflective conversation.

We must clean up the legacy of industrial waste to protect the health of our children.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing legacy with the word 'legend.' While they sound somewhat similar and both relate to the past, they have very different meanings. A 'legend' is a famous person or a traditional story that may or may not be true. A 'legacy' is the actual impact or property left behind. For example, you would say 'Michael Jordan is a basketball legend,' but you would say 'His legacy is the global popularity of the NBA.' Another common error is using 'legacy' as a verb. While English often turns nouns into verbs (like 'texting' or 'googling'), 'legacy' has not undergone this change in standard English. You should avoid saying 'He legacied his fortune to charity.' Instead, use the verb 'bequeath' or the phrase 'leave as a legacy.'

Legacy vs. Legend: - Legend: A person (e.g., 'He is a legend').
- Legacy: The thing left behind (e.g., 'His legacy is his music').
Legacy vs. Heritage: - Heritage: Broad cultural or natural history (e.g., 'World Heritage Site').
- Legacy: Specific impact of an individual or group (e.g., 'The founder's legacy').

Incorrect: He is a great legacy in the world of science.
Correct: He is a great legend, and his legacy is his research.

Another mistake is assuming that a legacy is always positive. While we often use the word to praise someone, it can also describe negative consequences. For instance, 'The dictator left a legacy of fear and poverty.' Learners sometimes hesitate to use 'legacy' in negative contexts, but it is perfectly appropriate and very common in historical and political analysis. Additionally, be careful with the word 'inheritance.' While an inheritance is a type of legacy, 'legacy' is often used for specific items or intangible things, whereas 'inheritance' often refers to the total sum of what is received. You inherit an estate, but you are left a legacy of a specific painting or a specific set of values.

Incorrect: The company is proud of its legacy software.
Correct: The company is struggling to update its legacy software.

Pluralization Pitfalls: Use 'legacy' (singular) for a person's general impact. Use 'legacies' (plural) only when referring to multiple specific gifts or distinct historical effects.

Finally, ensure you are using the correct preposition. You leave a legacy to someone or for future generations. You do not leave a legacy 'at' or 'with' someone in the same way. For example, 'She left a legacy to her children' or 'He left a legacy for the world.' Understanding these nuances will help you use the word with the precision and gravitas it deserves. Avoid overusing the word for small, insignificant things; 'legacy' should be reserved for things that have a meaningful and lasting quality. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can communicate more effectively about history, family, and the long-term impact of human actions.

The legacy of the industrial revolution is a complex mix of progress and pollution.

To truly master the word legacy, it is helpful to compare it with similar terms that describe things passed down from the past. The most common synonyms are 'heritage,' 'inheritance,' 'bequest,' and 'endowment.' Each of these words has a slightly different nuance and is used in different contexts. 'Heritage' is often used for the collective history, traditions, and values of a whole group or nation. For example, we talk about 'cultural heritage' or 'world heritage sites.' While a legacy can be personal, heritage is usually communal. 'Inheritance' is the most common word for money or property received from a relative. It is more transactional and less focused on the 'impact' or 'reputation' than legacy is.

Legacy vs. Bequest: A 'bequest' is a very formal and legal term for a legacy of personal property. You will find this word in wills and legal documents. 'Legacy' is the more common, everyday word that can be both legal and metaphorical.
Legacy vs. Endowment: An 'endowment' is a large gift of money, usually given to an institution like a university or hospital, to provide a permanent income. A legacy can be an endowment, but an endowment is specifically a financial structure.

While his legacy was his poetry, his inheritance was a small farm in the countryside.

In more abstract contexts, you might use words like 'aftermath,' 'vestige,' or 'tradition.' 'Aftermath' is used for the consequences of an event, usually a negative one, like the aftermath of a war. While 'legacy' can also be negative, 'aftermath' is more immediate, whereas 'legacy' suggests a long-term presence. 'Vestige' refers to a small remaining part of something that was once much larger or more important. For example, 'the ruins are a vestige of a great empire.' 'Tradition' refers to customs or beliefs passed down through generations. A legacy often includes traditions, but it also includes the results of specific actions and achievements. Understanding these distinctions allows you to choose the most precise word for your meaning.

The legacy of the Renaissance is visible in every art gallery in Europe.

Other Alternatives: - Birthright: Something you are entitled to by birth.
- Patrimony: Property inherited from one's father or ancestors.
- Remnant: A small remaining quantity of something.

When writing about a person's reputation after they die, 'posthumous fame' is a related concept, but 'legacy' is broader because it includes the actual changes they made in the world, not just how famous they are. In the world of technology, 'obsolescence' is a related term, but 'legacy' specifically refers to the old systems that are still hanging on. By exploring these synonyms and alternatives, you gain a deeper appreciation for the unique space that 'legacy' occupies in the English language—a space that blends the material and the spiritual, the past and the future. Whether you are describing a family's history or a nation's development, choosing between 'legacy,' 'heritage,' and 'inheritance' will help you convey your message with greater clarity and emotional resonance.

The architect's legacy is the skyline of the city he helped to design.

How Formal Is It?

フォーマル

ニュートラル

カジュアル

Child friendly

スラング

豆知識

Because the root 'legatus' means 'envoy,' you can think of a legacy as a 'message' or 'representative' of yourself that you send into the future after you are gone.

発音ガイド

UK /ˈleɡ.ə.si/

US /ˈleɡ.ə.si/

The primary stress is on the first syllable: LEG-a-cy.

韻が合う語

efficacy intricacy delicacy advocacy supremacy diplomacy pharmacy celibacy

よくある間違い

Pronouncing the 'g' as a 'j' sound (like 'lejacy'). It should be a hard 'g'.
Stressing the second or third syllable instead of the first.
Confusing the pronunciation with 'legendary'.
Making the 'a' sound too long, like 'lay-gacy'.
Muttering the final 'cy' so it sounds like 'cease'.

難易度

読解 3/5

The word is common in news and literature but requires understanding abstract concepts.

ライティング 4/5

Using it correctly in its various nuances (legal vs. metaphorical) can be tricky.

スピーキング 3/5

It is a powerful word to use in serious discussions about impact and history.

リスニング 3/5

Easily recognized in formal speeches and documentaries.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

gift history past future money

次に学ぶ

heritage bequest endowment patrimony jurisprudence

上級

intergenerational posthumous bequeath obsolescence vestigial

知っておくべき文法

Nouns as Adjectives

In 'legacy system,' the noun 'legacy' acts as an adjective to describe the system.

Countable vs. Uncountable

Legacy is countable: 'He left two legacies to different charities.'

Prepositional Phrases

Use 'a legacy of' followed by a noun to describe the content: 'a legacy of hope'.

Verb-Noun Agreement

The verb 'leave' is the most common partner for 'legacy'.

Formal vs. Informal Verbs

Use 'bequeath' for formal legal contexts and 'leave' for general contexts.

レベル別の例文

The king left a legacy to his son.

El rey dejó un legado a su hijo.

Legacy is a noun here.

This old house is my family's legacy.

Esta casa antigua es el legado de mi familia.

Using 'legacy' to mean a physical building.

She received a legacy of one thousand dollars.

Ella recibió un legado de mil dólares.

Legacy refers to a specific amount of money.

My grandfather's legacy is his watch.

El legado de mi abuelo es su reloj.

A simple object as a legacy.

The teacher left a legacy of books to the school.

El profesor dejó un legado de libros a la escuela.

Legacy used for a collection of items.

He wants to leave a good legacy.

Él quiere dejar un buen legado.

Legacy as a general positive impact.

The legacy was a surprise to everyone.

El legado fue una sorpresa para todos.

Legacy as the subject of the sentence.

They talked about the legacy of the old town.

Ellos hablaron sobre el legado del pueblo antiguo.

Legacy referring to historical importance.

The Romans left a legacy of strong bridges.

Los romanos dejaron un legado de puentes fuertes.

Legacy used for historical infrastructure.

Her legacy of kindness will never be forgotten.

Su legado de bondad nunca será olvidado.

Legacy as an intangible quality.

The museum protects the legacy of the artist.

El museo protege el legado del artista.

Legacy as a person's life work.

We must respect the legacy of our ancestors.

Debemos respetar el legado de nuestros antepasados.

Legacy as family history and values.

The company has a legacy of making good cars.

La empresa tiene un legado de fabricar buenos coches.

Legacy as a corporate reputation.

He inherited a legacy of debt from his father.

Heredó un legado de deudas de su padre.

Legacy used in a negative context.

The festival is a legacy of the town's history.

El festival es un legado de la historia del pueblo.

Legacy as a continuing tradition.

She left a legacy to the local animal shelter.

Ella dejó un legado al refugio de animales local.

Legacy as a charitable donation.

The president's legacy includes major changes to the law.

El legado del presidente incluye cambios importantes en la ley.

Legacy as political impact.

The Olympic Games left a lasting legacy for the city.

Los Juegos Olímpicos dejaron un legado duradero para la ciudad.

Legacy as the long-term benefit of an event.

It is difficult to maintain a legacy in a changing world.

Es difícil mantener un legado en un mundo cambiante.

Legacy as something that needs protection.

The scientist's legacy is the research that saved many lives.

El legado del científico es la investigación que salvó muchas vidas.

Legacy as intellectual contribution.

The company is still using legacy software from the 1990s.

La empresa todavía utiliza software heredado de los años 90.

Legacy as an adjective for outdated technology.

She wanted to build a legacy that her children would be proud of.

Ella quería construir un legado del que sus hijos estuvieran orgullosos.

Legacy as a goal for one's life.

The war left a legacy of bitterness between the two countries.

La guerra dejó un legado de amargura entre los dos países.

Legacy as a negative emotional impact.

The author's legacy lives on through her famous novels.

El legado de la autora perdura a través de sus famosas novelas.

Legacy as creative endurance.

The colonial legacy continues to shape the country's economy.

El legado colonial sigue dando forma a la economía del país.

Legacy as a complex historical influence.

He was concerned that the scandal would tarnish his legacy.

Le preocupaba que el escándalo empañara su legado.

Legacy as a reputation that can be damaged.

The university's legacy admissions policy has been criticized.

La política de admisiones por legado de la universidad ha sido criticada.

Legacy used in the context of institutional preference.

The architect left a legacy of beautiful buildings across the city.

El arquitecto dejó un legado de hermosos edificios por toda la ciudad.

Legacy as a physical contribution to a landscape.

We are dealing with the legacy of decades of environmental neglect.

Estamos lidiando con el legado de décadas de negligencia ambiental.

Legacy as a systemic problem from the past.

The founder's legacy of innovation is still the core of the company.

El legado de innovación del fundador sigue siendo el núcleo de la empresa.

Legacy as a guiding principle.

The museum received a significant legacy from an anonymous donor.

El museo recibió un legado significativo de un donante anónimo.

Legacy as a large financial gift.

The film explores the legacy of the civil rights movement.

La película explora el legado del movimiento por los derechos civiles.

Legacy as the ongoing impact of a social movement.

The philosopher's legacy is a profound challenge to modern ethics.

El legado del filósofo es un desafío profundo a la ética moderna.

Legacy as an intellectual provocation.

The city must confront the legacy of industrial pollution in its soil.

La ciudad debe enfrentar el legado de la contaminación industrial en su suelo.

Legacy as a physical and ecological burden.

The composer's legacy was reinterpreted by a new generation of musicians.

El legado del compositor fue reinterpretado por una nueva generación de músicos.

Legacy as something that can be changed or updated.

The treaty left a legacy of peace that lasted for over a century.

El tratado dejó un legado de paz que duró más de un siglo.

Legacy as a long-term political outcome.

She felt the weight of her family's legacy as she took over the business.

Sintió el peso del legado de su familia al hacerse cargo del negocio.

Legacy as a psychological pressure or responsibility.

The digital legacy of our era will be a vast archive of data.

El legado digital de nuestra era será un vasto archivo de datos.

Legacy as a modern, technological concept.

His legacy is complicated by the controversial decisions he made.

Su legado se ve complicado por las decisiones controvertidas que tomó.

Legacy as a nuanced and debated reputation.

The charity was established to preserve the legacy of the fallen soldiers.

La organización benéfica se estableció para preservar el legado de los soldados caídos.

Legacy as a form of remembrance.

The Anthropocene will leave a legacy of plastic in the geological record.

El Antropoceno dejará un legado de plástico en el registro geológico.

Legacy as a permanent physical mark on the planet.

We must interrogate the legacy of systemic racism in our institutions.

Debemos interrogar el legado del racismo sistémico en nuestras instituciones.

Legacy as a subject of critical analysis.

The artist's legacy is a testament to the power of creative resistance.

El legado del artista es un testimonio del poder de la resistencia creativa.

Legacy as a moral or political statement.

The migration of legacy data to the new platform was a Herculean task.

La migración de datos heredados a la nueva plataforma fue una tarea hercúlea.

Legacy as a technical challenge in computing.

The legacy of the Enlightenment continues to underpin our democratic values.

El legado de la Ilustración sigue sustentando nuestros valores democráticos.

Legacy as a foundational intellectual framework.

The CEO's legacy was defined by her commitment to stakeholder capitalism.

El legado de la directora ejecutiva fue definido por su compromiso con el capitalismo de partes interesadas.

Legacy as a specific professional philosophy.

The poet's legacy is a haunting reminder of the fragility of beauty.

El legado del poeta es un recordatorio inquietante de la fragilidad de la belleza.

Legacy as an emotional and aesthetic impact.

The legal legacy of the case will influence jurisprudence for decades.

El legado legal del caso influirá en la jurisprudencia durante décadas.

Legacy as a long-term influence on the law.

よく使う組み合わせ

lasting legacy

leave a legacy

cultural legacy

digital legacy

legacy system

tarnish a legacy

rich legacy

bitter legacy

protect a legacy

legacy admissions

よく使うフレーズ

a legacy of

build a legacy

honor a legacy

preserve a legacy

carry on a legacy

the weight of legacy

a complicated legacy

legacy project

bequeath a legacy

living legacy

よく混同される語

legacy vs legend

A legend is a person or a story; a legacy is the impact or gift left behind.

legacy vs heritage

Heritage is usually collective and cultural; legacy is often more individual or specific.

legacy vs inheritance

Inheritance is the act of receiving; legacy is the thing that is left.

慣用句と表現

"leave one's mark"

To have a significant and lasting effect on something or someone.

She really left her mark on the company during her time as CEO.

informal

"pass the torch"

To hand over a responsibility or a tradition to a younger person.

The veteran player is ready to pass the torch to the new rookie.

neutral

"cast a long shadow"

To have an influence that lasts for a long time and affects many things.

The former president's policies still cast a long shadow over the country.

literary

"set in stone"

To be permanent and unchangeable, like a lasting legacy.

His legacy as a great leader is now set in stone.

informal

"stand the test of time"

To remain important, relevant, or effective for a long period.

The author's legacy has stood the test of time.

neutral

"fill someone's shoes"

To take over a role and perform as well as the person who had it before.

It will be hard for anyone to fill the legacy of the previous director.

informal

"a chip off the old block"

Someone who is very similar to their parent, often carrying on their legacy.

The young pianist is a chip off the old block, continuing his father's legacy.

informal

"make history"

To do something so important that it will be remembered as a legacy.

The team made history by winning the championship for the first time.

neutral

"footprints in the sands of time"

The lasting impact or legacy left by a person's life.

He wanted to leave his footprints in the sands of time through his poetry.

literary

"the end of an era"

The conclusion of a significant period of time, often marked by a lasting legacy.

The retirement of the great singer felt like the end of an era.

neutral

間違えやすい

legacy vs bequest

Both refer to things left in a will.

Bequest is more formal and strictly legal, usually referring to personal property. Legacy is broader and can be metaphorical.

The bequest was a diamond ring; his legacy was his love for his family.

legacy vs patrimony

Both involve inheritance.

Patrimony specifically refers to property inherited from a father or male ancestor. Legacy is gender-neutral and broader.

The family estate was his patrimony, but the library was his grandfather's legacy.

legacy vs aftermath

Both describe the results of an event.

Aftermath is usually immediate and negative. Legacy is long-term and can be positive or negative.

The aftermath of the storm was chaos; the legacy of the storm was a new sea wall.

legacy vs endowment

Both involve large gifts.

An endowment is a financial fund that provides ongoing income. A legacy is a one-time gift or impact.

The legacy was a single donation; the endowment ensures the school stays open.

legacy vs tradition

Both are passed down through time.

Tradition is a custom or belief. Legacy is the overall impact or specific gift.

The tradition is singing songs; the legacy is the community spirit.

文型パターン

The [person] left a legacy.

The king left a legacy.

His/Her legacy is [noun].

Her legacy is her kindness.

They left a legacy of [abstract noun].

They left a legacy of peace.

The [event] left a lasting legacy.

The war left a lasting legacy.

To build a legacy in [field].

She built a legacy in medicine.

The legacy of [person/event] is [adjective].

The legacy of the revolution is complicated.

Confronting the legacy of [problem].

Confronting the legacy of slavery.

The [concept] underpins the legacy of [period].

Reason underpins the legacy of the Enlightenment.

語族

名詞

動詞

形容詞

使い方

frequency

Common in journalism, history, law, and technology.

よくある間違い

Using 'legacy' as a verb. → He left his house as a legacy.
Legacy is a noun. Use 'leave' or 'bequeath' as the verb.
Confusing 'legacy' with 'legend'. → He is a legend, and his legacy is his music.
A legend is a person; a legacy is what they leave behind.
Thinking a legacy must be positive. → The dictator left a legacy of suffering.
Legacies can be negative, representing the bad things left behind.
Using 'legacy' for short-term things. → The legacy of the 19th century.
Legacy implies something that lasts for a long time, not just a few days.
Misusing 'legacy' in IT contexts. → We are replacing the legacy system.
In IT, 'legacy' usually means 'old and outdated,' not 'valuable gift.'

ヒント

Choosing the Right Verb

Always pair 'legacy' with strong verbs like 'leave,' 'build,' or 'protect' to make your writing more dynamic and precise.

Historical Context

When discussing history, use 'legacy' to explain why an event from hundreds of years ago still matters today.

Countability

Remember that 'legacy' is countable. You can have 'a legacy' or 'many legacies,' but you cannot have 'some legacy' in the same way you have 'some water.'

Legacy vs. Legend

Don't call a person a 'legacy.' Call them a 'legend.' Call the things they did their 'legacy.'

In Business

Use 'legacy' to describe long-standing company values that should be preserved during times of change.

In IT

Be aware that 'legacy' in technology often has a negative nuance, implying that something is old and needs to be replaced.

Building Your Own

Think about your legacy as your 'reputation over time.' Every small act of kindness adds to your personal legacy.

In Essays

Use 'legacy' to conclude an essay about a famous person, summarizing their overall impact on the world.

In Law

Understand that in a will, a 'legacy' is a specific gift, whereas the 'residue' is everything else that is left over.

Metaphorical Use

Don't be afraid to use 'legacy' metaphorically, such as 'the legacy of a long summer' to describe a tan or happy memories.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of 'LEG-a-cy' as the 'LEG' you stand on from the past. It is the foundation left by those before you.

視覚的連想

Imagine an old, ornate wooden chest filled with gold coins and old photographs. This chest represents both the material and personal parts of a legacy.

Word Web

Inheritance Will History Impact Tradition Reputation Future Past

チャレンジ

Write a short paragraph about what kind of legacy you want to leave behind. Use the word 'legacy' at least three times.

語源

The word 'legacy' comes from the Middle English 'legacie,' which was borrowed from the Old French 'legacie.' This, in turn, derived from the Medieval Latin 'legatia,' which comes from the Latin 'legatus.'

元の意味： In Latin, 'legatus' meant an ambassador, envoy, or someone sent with a specific commission. It is related to 'legare,' meaning to send as an ambassador or to bequeath.

Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > French > English.

文化的な背景

Be careful when discussing 'legacies' of conflict or oppression, as these are often painful and contested topics.

In the US and UK, 'legacy' is frequently used in the context of university admissions, where children of alumni are given preference.

The 'Legacy' series of books and films often explore themes of family secrets and inherited power. The 'Legacy' of Martin Luther King Jr. is a common topic in American schools during Black History Month. The 'Legacy' of the Beatles is frequently cited in music history as the foundation of modern pop and rock.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Legal/Wills

specific legacy
pecuniary legacy
charitable legacy
bequeath a legacy

Politics/History

political legacy
historical legacy
legacy of reform
enduring legacy

Technology/IT

legacy system
legacy code
legacy data
migrate from legacy

Sports

career legacy
sporting legacy
tarnish a legacy
cement a legacy

Family/Personal

family legacy
personal legacy
legacy of love
carry on the legacy

会話のきっかけ

"What kind of legacy do you think the current generation will leave for the next?"

"If you could be remembered for one thing, what would you want your legacy to be?"

"Do you think legacy admissions in universities are fair or should they be abolished?"

"How does the legacy of your family history influence the person you are today?"

"What is the most important legacy that a leader can leave for their country?"

日記のテーマ

Reflect on a person in your life who has left a positive legacy. What did they leave behind, and how has it affected you?

Write about the legacy of a historical event that you find particularly interesting. How does it still impact the world today?

If you were to write your own will today, what non-material legacies would you want to leave to your loved ones?

Discuss the challenges of managing a digital legacy in the modern age. What should happen to our online data after we die?

Consider the 'legacy of pollution.' What responsibilities do we have to clean up the mistakes of previous generations?

よくある質問

10 問

Yes, a legacy can be negative. It refers to anything left behind from the past. For example, a leader might leave a 'legacy of corruption' or a 'legacy of debt.' In these cases, the legacy is a problem that future generations must solve.

A legacy system is an old computer system, programming language, or software application that is still in use. It is called 'legacy' because it was inherited from an earlier time. These systems are often difficult to replace because they are still doing important work, even if they are outdated.

They are related but not identical. 'Inheritance' usually refers to the total amount of money or property someone receives. 'Legacy' often refers to a specific gift or, more commonly, the intangible impact a person has on the world after they are gone.

You can use 'legacy' as an attributive noun (which acts like an adjective) to describe something that is old or inherited. Common examples include 'legacy software,' 'legacy media,' and 'legacy admissions.'

To 'tarnish a legacy' means to damage the good reputation that someone has built over their life. This usually happens because of a scandal, a mistake, or a controversial decision that makes people view their past achievements in a negative light.

Legacy admissions is a policy used by some universities, especially in the United States, to give preference to applicants who are the children or relatives of alumni (former students). It is a controversial practice because it can favor wealthy and well-connected families.

Yes. While we often talk about legacy after someone has died, people can 'build a legacy' while they are still alive. This means they are performing actions and creating things that they know will have a lasting impact in the future.

A digital legacy is the information and data you leave behind online after you die. This includes your social media accounts, emails, photos stored in the cloud, and any other digital content you have created or owned.

It is a neutral to formal word. It is appropriate for serious conversations, academic writing, and legal documents. It is less common in very casual, everyday slang, though it is still understood by most English speakers.

The plural of legacy is 'legacies.' You use the plural when referring to multiple specific gifts or several different impacts left by a person or an event. For example: 'The museum received several legacies from its founders.'