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B1 noun #11 最常用 12分钟阅读

legends

前11

开始练习例句笔记与提示 legends 30秒了解

解析 legends in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'legends' is a word you might see in very simple stories or on a map. You can think of it as 'famous stories' or 'famous people.' For example, if you see a picture of a very famous soccer player like Pelé, someone might say, 'He is a legend.' This means he is very, very good and everyone knows him. On a map, the 'legend' is the small box that tells you what the colors mean. For example, 'Blue is water.' It is a simple tool to help you read the map. You don't need to worry about the history of the word yet. Just remember that it means something very famous or a helpful key on a map. You might hear it in cartoons or simple books about heroes. It is a positive word when talking about people. If you help a friend, they might say 'You are a legend!' to say thank you in a very nice way. This is very common in English-speaking countries like England or Australia. Even at this early stage, you can use it to talk about your favorite stars or to understand your school maps. Keep it simple: legends are big stories or big people.

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At the A2 level, you can start to use 'legends' to describe traditional stories from different countries. You might learn about 'the legends of the Vikings' or 'the legends of the Native Americans.' These are stories that people have told for a long time. They are often about brave people or strange events. You should know that legends are different from true history because we cannot prove everything in the story is real. However, they are not just 'made up' like a fairy tale; they usually start with a real person or place. In sports and movies, you will hear this word a lot. When a famous actor dies, the news might call them a 'Hollywood legend.' This means they were very important to the history of movies. You can also use it to talk about maps in more detail. When you look at a map of a city, you look at the legend to find the train station or the park. It is a useful word for travel and for talking about your interests. Try to use it when you talk about someone you admire very much. For example, 'My grandfather is a legend in our family because he was so kind.'

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At the B1 level, you should understand that 'legends' refers to a specific genre of storytelling that sits between myth and history. Legends usually have a historical basis—they are about real people or events—but they have been changed over time to include heroic or supernatural elements. For example, King Arthur might have been a real leader, but the stories about his magic sword are legends. You should also be comfortable using 'legends' to describe highly influential figures in various fields. At this level, you can distinguish between 'urban legends' (modern scary or funny stories that people tell as if they are true) and 'ancient legends.' You will often see this word in news articles, documentaries, and literature. It is also important to use the word correctly in the plural. When you say 'The legends of the fall,' you are talking about multiple stories or a specific atmosphere. In technical writing, you should know that a 'legend' is essential for any graph or chart you create in school or work. It explains what the data points represent. Using 'legends' at this level shows you can discuss culture, history, and technical information with more precision. You can also start using it in casual conversation to show enthusiasm, like calling a helpful colleague a 'legend.'

At the B2 level, you should be able to use 'legends' to discuss the cultural significance of storytelling. You can explain how legends help define a nation's identity or how they evolve to reflect changing social values. For instance, you might analyze how the legends of Robin Hood have changed from the Middle Ages to modern cinema. You should also be aware of the nuanced difference between a 'legend' and an 'icon' or a 'myth.' At this level, you can use the word in more complex sentence structures, such as 'The legends surrounding the explorer's disappearance have only grown more elaborate over the decades.' You should also be familiar with the term 'living legend' and use it to describe contemporary figures who have achieved a permanent place in history while still alive. In professional contexts, you might use the word 'legend' when presenting data, ensuring your audience can interpret your charts correctly. You should also understand the concept of 'legendary' as an adjective, which is derived from this noun. For example, 'His legendary performance at the Olympics will never be forgotten.' This level requires you to use the word not just to label things, but to explore the 'why' behind the fame or the story. You can also recognize when the word is being used ironically or hyperbolically in media and social contexts.

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At the C1 level, your use of 'legends' should reflect a deep understanding of its literary and sociological implications. You can discuss the process of 'legend-building'—how media and public perception transform a real person into a legendary figure. You might use the word in academic essays to describe the 'hagiographic' nature of certain legends, where the subject is treated as if they were a saint. You should be able to navigate the fine lines between folklore, mythology, and legendary history with ease. For example, you could write about how 'the legends of the American West served to justify westward expansion.' In technical or scientific writing, you would use 'legend' with absolute precision to ensure clarity in complex data visualizations. You should also be sensitive to the register of the word; you know when to use 'legends' to evoke a sense of grandeur and when to use a more neutral term like 'narratives' or 'accounts' to maintain objectivity. Your vocabulary should also include related terms like 'mythos,' 'lore,' and 'hagiography.' At this level, you can also appreciate the word's use in high-level journalism and literature, where it might be used to critique the way we idolize certain figures. You understand that 'legends' are not just stories, but powerful tools for shaping collective memory and social norms.

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At the C2 level, you possess a masterly command of the word 'legends' and its various connotations. You can engage in sophisticated discourse about the 'deconstruction of legends,' examining how modern scholarship often seeks to separate historical fact from legendary embellishment. You might explore the 'intertextuality' of legends—how one story influences another across different cultures and time periods. Your usage is characterized by a high degree of precision and stylistic flair. For instance, you might describe a person as 'a figure of legendary proportions whose exploits have transcended the realm of mere biography to become part of the national psyche.' You are also adept at using the word in metaphorical ways, perhaps discussing the 'legends' we create about our own lives to give them meaning. In the realm of data science or cartography, you understand the 'legend' not just as a key, but as a critical interface between the data and the user's perception. You can use the word in any register, from the most formal academic setting to the most nuanced literary critique, and even in the most subtle forms of irony or satire. You are aware of the etymological journey of the word from the Latin 'legenda' and how its meaning has expanded from 'religious readings' to its current multifaceted status. At this level, 'legends' is a versatile tool in your linguistic arsenal, used to convey depth, history, and cultural resonance.

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开始练习例句笔记与提示

legends 30秒了解

Legends are traditional stories that blend historical facts with imaginative elements, often focusing on heroic human figures from the past.
The term is also a high compliment for individuals who have achieved extraordinary fame or influence in their respective fields.
In technical contexts, a legend is the key on a map or chart that explains the meaning of symbols and colors.
Legends differ from myths by focusing on human history rather than gods, and from fables by lacking a primary focus on moral lessons.

The word legends carries a dual weight in the English language, bridging the gap between ancient folklore and modern-day heroism. At its core, a legend is a narrative that occupies the misty space between historical fact and imaginative fiction. Unlike myths, which often deal with gods and the origins of the universe, legends are typically centered on human characters who may have actually existed, though their deeds have been amplified through centuries of storytelling. When we speak of the legends of King Arthur or the legends of Robin Hood, we are referring to a body of stories that a culture holds dear, serving as a repository for its values, fears, and aspirations. These stories are not merely 'lies'; they are 'cultural truths' that explain how a people see themselves and their history. In a modern context, the term has evolved significantly. We now use 'legends' to describe individuals who have achieved such a high level of mastery or fame in their field—be it sports, music, or science—that they seem larger than life. A 'living legend' is someone whose current impact is so profound that they are already being spoken of in the same breath as historical greats. This shift from 'story' to 'person' highlights our human need to personify excellence. Furthermore, the word appears in technical contexts, such as the 'legend' on a map or chart, which acts as a key to decode symbols. This usage stems from the Latin root meaning 'things to be read,' emphasizing the role of a legend as a guide to understanding complex information.

Historical Context: Legends often originate from oral traditions where stories were passed down through generations, gaining embellishments that reflect the social climate of each era.
Modern Colloquialism: In casual British and Australian English, 'legend' is frequently used as a superlative for a friend who has done a small favor, such as 'You're a legend for buying those tickets.'

The ancient legends of the mountains tell of a giant who sleeps beneath the snow, waking only when the world is in peril.

Michael Jordan and LeBron James are considered basketball legends because of their unprecedented dominance on the court.

Cartographic Usage: The map's legend explained that the dotted lines represented seasonal hiking trails rather than permanent roads.

Urban legends often spread quickly through social media, even when they have no basis in reality.

She spent years researching the legends of the Celtic tribes to write her historical novel.

Literary Symbolism: In literature, legends serve as a way to explore universal themes like bravery, sacrifice, and the struggle against fate.

The legends of Hollywood's Golden Age continue to fascinate film students today.

Using the word legends effectively requires an understanding of the context, as it can function as a noun for stories, people, or explanatory keys. When discussing stories, 'legends' is often paired with verbs like 'recount,' 'pass down,' 'unfold,' or 'persist.' For example, 'Local historians recount the legends of the lost treasure buried beneath the old lighthouse.' Here, the word suggests a narrative that is well-known but perhaps unverified. When referring to people, 'legends' is frequently used in the plural to denote a group of elite individuals. You might say, 'The hall of fame is dedicated to the legends of jazz.' In this sense, it functions as a collective noun for greatness. It is also common to see the word modified by adjectives that specify the type of legend, such as 'urban legends,' 'living legends,' 'maritime legends,' or 'sporting legends.' Urban legends are a specific subgenre—modern stories that circulate as true, often containing a moral or a cautionary element. For instance, 'The story about the escaped convict is one of the most famous urban legends in this state.' In technical writing, specifically regarding maps or data visualization, 'legends' (though often used in the singular 'legend') refers to the explanatory box. 'Please refer to the legends at the bottom of the chart to understand the color coding.' This usage is strictly functional and lacks the romantic or heroic connotations of the other definitions. Grammatically, 'legends' is a countable noun. It can be used with articles ('the legends'), quantifiers ('many legends'), or in a general sense without an article ('Legends say that...'). It is important to match the tone of the word to the subject matter; using 'legends' for something trivial might come across as hyperbolic or sarcastic, which is common in informal slang.

Subject-Verb Agreement: Since 'legends' is plural, it takes a plural verb: 'The legends are still told today,' not 'The legends is.'

Many legends surround the construction of the Great Wall of China.

The legends on these ancient maps are often written in Latin.

Adjective Pairings: Common pairings include 'ancient legends,' 'forgotten legends,' and 'enduring legends.'

He is one of those legends who changed the course of medical history.

The legends of the samurai are still celebrated in Japanese culture.

Prepositional Phrases: We often say 'legends of [subject]' or 'legends about [subject].'

The legends associated with this castle are quite terrifying.

The word legends is ubiquitous across various domains, from academic settings to pop culture. In educational environments, particularly history and literature classes, you will hear it used to categorize non-fictionalized accounts of historical figures. A professor might discuss the 'legends of the Founding Fathers,' examining how their real lives have been mythologized over time. In the realm of sports, 'legends' is perhaps the most common term used by commentators and fans alike. During a broadcast, you might hear, 'We are watching two legends of the game face off for the final time.' This usage elevates the athletes to a status beyond mere players, suggesting their influence will be felt for generations. The gaming industry has also embraced the term, most notably in the title 'League of Legends,' where it refers to the powerful characters players control. In this context, 'legends' implies a level of power and epic significance. You will also encounter the word in the tourism industry. Travel guides often highlight 'local legends' to add a layer of intrigue to a destination. Whether it's a haunted hotel or a mysterious forest, legends are used as a marketing tool to captivate the imagination of travelers. In the world of music, radio hosts frequently introduce 'rock legends' or 'opera legends,' signaling to the audience that the upcoming artist is of the highest caliber. Even in corporate settings, the term is used—sometimes ironically—to describe long-tenured employees who possess 'institutional knowledge.' For example, 'Ask Bob about the old filing system; he's one of the office legends.' Finally, in any context involving data or navigation, the word 'legend' is the standard term for the key that explains symbols. Whether you are looking at a weather map on the news or a demographic chart in a business report, the legend is the essential tool for interpretation. Understanding these varied contexts allows a learner to grasp the emotional and functional range of the word.

Sports Commentary: 'He has cemented his place among the legends of the sport with this victory.'

The documentary explores the legends of the Delta Blues musicians.

The legends on the hiking map helped us find the water sources.

Tourism and Travel: 'Our tour guide told us several local legends about the ghosts of the Old Town.'

The legends of the Wild West are often more fiction than fact.

The museum features an exhibit on the legends of Norse mythology.

Academic Research: 'Scholars debate the origins of the legends surrounding the Trojan War.'

The legends of the silver screen were honored at the film festival.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing legends with 'myths' or 'fables.' While they are related, the distinctions are important for precise communication. A myth typically involves supernatural beings or gods and explains natural phenomena or the origins of the world (e.g., the myth of Zeus). A legend, however, usually has a kernel of historical truth and focuses on human heroes (e.g., the legends of King Arthur). A fable is a short story, often with animals as characters, that conveys a specific moral lesson (e.g., Aesop's Fables). Confusing these can lead to inaccuracies in academic or literary discussions. Another common error is the misuse of the singular versus plural form. While 'legend' can refer to a single story or person, 'legends' is the collective or plural form. Some learners mistakenly use 'legends' when they mean 'legacy.' A legacy is what someone leaves behind (money, reputation, impact), whereas a legend is the story or the person themselves. For example, you wouldn't say 'He left a great legends,' but rather 'He left a great legacy' or 'He is one of the legends.' In technical contexts, learners sometimes forget that 'legend' is the specific term for a map key. Using 'table' or 'index' instead of 'legend' on a map can be confusing for the reader. Furthermore, there is the risk of overusing the word in its slang sense. Calling everyone a 'legend' for minor tasks can dilute the word's power and may sound overly informal or even sarcastic in professional settings. Lastly, ensure proper spelling; 'legends' is often misspelled as 'legands' or 'leginds' by beginners. Paying attention to the 'e' in the second syllable is crucial. By avoiding these pitfalls, you can use the word with greater confidence and accuracy.

Legend vs. Myth: Use 'myth' for gods and origins; use 'legend' for human-based stories with potential historical roots.

Incorrect: The legends of the Greek gods are fascinating. (Better: The myths of the Greek gods...)

Incorrect: Please check the index to see what the red lines on the map mean. (Correct: Please check the legend...)

Legend vs. Legacy: A 'legend' is a person or story; a 'legacy' is the lasting effect of their actions.

Incorrect: His legends will live on forever. (Better: His legacy will live on forever.)

The legends of the Loch Ness Monster are widely known but unproven.

Spelling Tip: Think of 'leg' + 'end' + 's'. The 'end' of the 'leg' (though unrelated in meaning) helps remember the 'e'.

Urban legends are often used to teach children about safety.

When you want to vary your vocabulary, several words can serve as alternatives to legends, depending on the specific meaning you intend. If you are referring to traditional stories, 'folklore' is an excellent broader term. Folklore encompasses not just legends, but also myths, proverbs, and traditional customs of a culture. 'Tales' or 'fables' can also be used, though they often imply a more fictional or moralistic tone. For instance, 'The tales of the high seas' sounds more adventurous and perhaps less 'historical' than 'The legends of the high seas.' If you are referring to famous people, 'icons' is a very close synonym. An icon is someone who is a representative symbol of something, often a particular era or style (e.g., 'fashion icons'). 'Greats' is another alternative, often used in sports: 'The all-time greats of basketball.' 'Heroes' can be used if the emphasis is on bravery or noble qualities. In a more formal or academic context, you might use 'mythos' to describe the collection of stories belonging to a culture. For the technical meaning of 'legend' on a map, 'key' is the most common and direct alternative. 'Explanatory notes' or 'caption' might also be used in certain document types. Understanding these nuances helps you choose the word that best fits your register. For example, 'folklore' sounds more scholarly, while 'tales' sounds more literary, and 'icons' sounds more modern and media-oriented. Comparing these words side-by-side reveals how 'legends' occupies a unique space that combines history, admiration, and narrative power.

Legends vs. Folklore: Folklore is the entire body of culture; legends are the specific stories within it.
Legends vs. Icons: Icons are symbols of a movement; legends are known for their enduring stories or feats.

The folklore of the region is rich with stories of magical creatures.

She is one of the icons of the civil rights movement.

Legends vs. Tales: Tales are often shorter and more focused on entertainment; legends carry more historical weight.

The key on the map explains the meaning of the various symbols.

The mythos of the ancient Egyptians is complex and deeply religious.

Legends vs. Fables: Fables always have a moral; legends may just be about a person's life or an event.

The greats of the literary world gathered for the award ceremony.

How Formal Is It?

趣味小知识

The word originally had nothing to do with being 'famous' or 'untrue.' It simply meant something that was written down to be read in a religious service.

发音指南

UK /ˈledʒ.əndz/

US /ˈledʒ.əndz/

The stress is on the first syllable: LE-gends.

押韵词

ends bends sends mends tends blends friends extends

常见错误

Pronouncing the 'g' as a hard 'g' (like 'get') instead of a soft 'j'.
Misplacing the stress on the second syllable.
Failing to pronounce the 'd' before the 's'.
Confusing the vowel sound in the first syllable with 'lay'.
Omitting the 's' at the end when referring to multiple stories.

难度评级

阅读 3/5

Easy to recognize in context, though technical and literary uses differ.

写作 4/5

Requires careful use of plural forms and understanding of collocations.

口语 2/5

Very common in casual speech as a compliment.

听力 3/5

Must distinguish between the story meaning and the map meaning.

接下来学什么

前置知识

story famous past map hero

接下来学习

mythology folklore legacy iconic narrative

高级

hagiography mythos intertextuality semiotics lore

需要掌握的语法

Plural Noun Agreement

The legends *are* (not is) fascinating.

Possessive with Nouns

The legend's origin is unknown.

Articles with Proper Nouns

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (definite article used for specific titles).

Adjective Placement

Ancient legends (adjective before the noun).

Prepositional Phrases

Legends *about* heroes or Legends *of* the fall.

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按水平分级的例句

The map has a legend to help you.

La carte a une légende pour vous aider.

Noun, singular used as a key.

He is a legend in football.

C'est une légende du football.

Noun, singular used for a person.

I love the legends of the sea.

J'adore les légendes de la mer.

Noun, plural used for stories.

The legends say the king was brave.

Les légendes disent que le roi était courageux.

Plural subject with a plural verb.

You are a legend for helping me!

Tu es une légende pour m'avoir aidé !

Informal slang usage.

We read legends in school today.

Nous avons lu des légendes à l'école aujourd'hui.

Direct object of the verb 'read'.

The legend shows where the parks are.

La légende montre où se trouvent les parcs.

Singular subject.

Are these legends true?

Ces légendes sont-elles vraies ?

Interrogative sentence with plural noun.

The legends of the mountains are very old.

Les légendes des montagnes sont très anciennes.

Plural noun followed by a prepositional phrase.

She is one of the legends of Hollywood.

Elle est l'une des légendes d'Hollywood.

Partitive construction 'one of the...'.

The legend on the graph is easy to read.

La légende sur le graphique est facile à lire.

Singular noun in a technical context.

Do you know any legends about ghosts?

Connaissez-vous des légendes sur les fantômes ?

Plural noun with the quantifier 'any'.

The book tells the legends of ancient Rome.

Le livre raconte les légendes de la Rome antique.

Definite article with plural noun.

Local legends say there is gold here.

Les légendes locales disent qu'il y a de l'or ici.

Adjective 'local' modifying the noun.

Many legends are about brave knights.

Beaucoup de légendes parlent de braves chevaliers.

Quantifier 'many' with plural noun.

He became one of the legends of the city.

Il est devenu l'une des légendes de la ville.

Linking verb 'became' with a noun phrase.

The legends of King Arthur have inspired many movies.

Les légendes du roi Arthur ont inspiré de nombreux films.

Present perfect verb 'have inspired' agreeing with plural 'legends'.

Urban legends often spread through the internet.

Les légendes urbaines se propagent souvent via Internet.

Compound noun 'urban legends'.

The map's legend explains the different symbols for trails.

La légende de la carte explique les différents symboles des sentiers.

Possessive form 'map's legend'.

He is a living legend in the world of science.

C'est une légende vivante dans le monde de la science.

Idiomatic phrase 'living legend'.

The legends of the island were passed down for generations.

Les légendes de l'île ont été transmises de génération en génération.

Passive voice 'were passed down'.

Scholars study these legends to learn about the past.

Les chercheurs étudient ces légendes pour en savoir plus sur le passé.

Demonstrative adjective 'these' with plural noun.

The legends of the Wild West are often exaggerated.

Les légendes de l'Ouest sauvage sont souvent exagérées.

Adverb 'often' modifying the verb 'are exaggerated'.

I don't believe the legends about the haunted forest.

Je ne crois pas aux légendes sur la forêt hantée.

Negative sentence with 'don't believe'.

The legends surrounding the pyramid's construction are numerous.

Les légendes entourant la construction de la pyramide sont nombreuses.

Present participle phrase 'surrounding...' modifying 'legends'.

She is widely regarded as one of the legends of jazz music.

Elle est largement considérée comme l'une des légendes de la musique jazz.

Passive construction 'is widely regarded as'.

The legend on the chart clearly indicates the growth trends.

La légende sur le graphique indique clairement les tendances de croissance.

Adverb 'clearly' modifying the verb 'indicates'.

Many maritime legends involve mythical sea creatures like the Kraken.

De nombreuses légendes maritimes impliquent des créatures marines mythiques comme le Kraken.

Adjective 'maritime' specifying the type of legends.

The legends of the samurai emphasize honor and discipline.

Les légendes des samouraïs mettent l'accent sur l'honneur et la discipline.

Abstract nouns 'honor' and 'discipline' as objects.

The documentary deconstructs the legends of the famous outlaw.

Le documentaire déconstruit les légendes du célèbre hors-la-loi.

Transitive verb 'deconstructs' with 'legends' as the object.

These legends have become an integral part of our national identity.

Ces légendes sont devenues une partie intégrante de notre identité nationale.

Present perfect 'have become' with an adjective phrase.

The legends of the lost city have fascinated explorers for centuries.

Les légendes de la cité perdue fascinent les explorateurs depuis des siècles.

Perfect tense used for a duration 'for centuries'.

The legends of the American frontier often obscure the harsh realities of the era.

Les légendes de la frontière américaine occultent souvent les dures réalités de l'époque.

Verb 'obscure' showing a contrast between legend and reality.

Scholars argue that these legends were used to consolidate political power.

Les chercheurs soutiennent que ces légendes ont été utilisées pour consolider le pouvoir politique.

Subordinate clause 'that these legends were used...'.

The legend of the map was meticulously detailed to prevent any navigational errors.

La légende de la carte a été méticuleusement détaillée pour éviter toute erreur de navigation.

Adverb 'meticulously' modifying the past participle 'detailed'.

The legends of the silver screen are often remembered through a nostalgic lens.

On se souvient souvent des légendes du grand écran à travers un prisme nostalgique.

Metaphorical phrase 'through a nostalgic lens'.

The hagiographic legends of the saints were central to medieval religious life.

Les légendes hagiographiques des saints étaient au cœur de la vie religieuse médiévale.

Sophisticated adjective 'hagiographic'.

Modern legends are frequently manufactured by public relations firms.

Les légendes modernes sont fréquemment fabriquées par des agences de relations publiques.

Passive voice 'are frequently manufactured'.

The legends of the Trojan War bridge the gap between myth and history.

Les légendes de la guerre de Troie font le pont entre le mythe et l'histoire.

Idiomatic verb phrase 'bridge the gap'.

The legends surrounding his life are so pervasive that the truth is hard to find.

Les légendes entourant sa vie sont si envahissantes qu'il est difficile de trouver la vérité.

Result clause 'so pervasive that...'.

The legends of the Norse gods provide a rich tapestry of cultural values and cosmic fears.

Les légendes des dieux nordiques offrent une riche mosaïque de valeurs culturelles et de peurs cosmiques.

Metaphorical use of 'tapestry'.

One must navigate the legends with a critical eye to discern the underlying historical facts.

Il faut naviguer parmi les légendes avec un œil critique pour discerner les faits historiques sous-jacents.

Modal verb 'must' with a critical prepositional phrase.

The legends of the 'self-made man' are deeply ingrained in the American psyche.

Les légendes de 'l'homme qui s'est fait tout seul' sont profondément ancrées dans le psychisme américain.

Compound noun in quotes as the subject of the legends.

The legend on the demographic map was criticized for its ambiguous symbology.

La légende de la carte démographique a été critiquée pour sa symbologie ambiguë.

Technical vocabulary: 'demographic', 'ambiguous', 'symbology'.

The legends of the Romantic era often romanticized the struggles of the common people.

Les légendes de l'époque romantique ont souvent romancé les luttes du peuple.

Historical period 'Romantic era' as a modifier.

Her life was the stuff of legends, marked by both incredible triumph and profound tragedy.

Sa vie était digne des légendes, marquée à la fois par un triomphe incroyable et une tragédie profonde.

Idiomatic expression 'the stuff of legends'.

The legends of the ancient world continue to resonate in contemporary literature.

Les légendes du monde antique continuent de résonner dans la littérature contemporaine.

Verb 'resonate' used in a literary sense.

The legends of the tech industry often overlook the collaborative nature of innovation.

Les légendes de l'industrie technologique oublient souvent la nature collaborative de l'innovation.

Contrast between 'legends' and 'collaborative nature'.

常见搭配

urban legends

living legends

local legends

sporting legends

ancient legends

map legend

legends say

stuff of legends

Hollywood legends

forgotten legends

常用短语

The stuff of legends

— Something so remarkable that it seems like it belongs in a legendary story.

Their comeback in the final minutes was the stuff of legends.

A living legend

— A person who is currently alive and already considered a legend.

Meeting the astronaut was like meeting a living legend.

According to legend

— Based on what the traditional stories say.

According to legend, the founder of the city was raised by wolves.

Absolute legend

— A very common informal British/Australian way to thank someone or praise them.

Thanks for the lift, you're an absolute legend!

Legends never die

— The idea that a famous person's impact and memory will last forever.

Though he passed away, fans believe that legends never die.

Ancient legends

— Stories from the distant past.

Ancient legends often involve gods and heroes.

Urban legends

— Modern stories that are passed around as if they were true.

Don't believe everything you hear; most of those are just urban legends.

Sporting legends

— Famous and successful athletes.

The hall of fame honors the greatest sporting legends.

Local legends

— Stories or famous people specific to a small area or town.

The town is full of local legends about the old mill.

Legend has it

— A common way to start telling a legendary story.

Legend has it that the ghost of the lady in white still haunts the halls.

容易混淆的词

legends vs myths

Myths are about gods/origins; legends are about humans/history.

legends vs fables

Fables have a moral lesson and often use animals; legends do not always have a moral.

legends vs legacy

Legacy is what you leave behind; a legend is the story or the person themselves.

习语与表达

"The stuff of legends"

— Extremely impressive or famous, like something from a story.

His bravery during the fire was the stuff of legends.

neutral

"Living legend"

— Someone who is famous and admired while they are still alive.

The director is a living legend in the film industry.

neutral

"Legend in one's own lifetime"

— Someone who becomes very famous and respected while they are still young or active.

She became a legend in her own lifetime for her humanitarian work.

formal

"Absolute legend"

— A very helpful or great person (informal).

You're an absolute legend for helping me move house.

informal/slang

"Legend has it"

— Used to introduce a story that is widely told but not necessarily true.

Legend has it that there is a secret tunnel under the school.

neutral

"A legend in his own mind"

— Someone who thinks they are much more important or famous than they actually are.

He's a bit of a legend in his own mind, isn't he?

informal/sarcastic

"Myth and legend"

— A phrase used to describe the whole body of traditional stories.

The history of the island is shrouded in myth and legend.

literary

"Become a legend"

— To achieve a level of fame that will be remembered for a long time.

He worked hard to become a legend in the culinary world.

neutral

"The legend grows"

— Used when more and more impressive stories are told about someone.

With every game he wins, the legend grows.

neutral

"Legends of the fall"

— Often used to refer to stories of decline or the end of an era (popularized by the book/movie).

The documentary captured the legends of the fall of the empire.

literary

容易混淆

legends vs Myth

Both are old stories.

Myths explain the world/gods; legends focus on human feats.

The myth of Prometheus vs. the legend of King Arthur.

legends vs Fable

Both are traditional narratives.

Fables are short and moralistic; legends are often longer and historical.

The fable of the tortoise and the hare vs. the legends of Robin Hood.

legends vs Saga

Both involve long stories of heroes.

Sagas are specifically long, detailed Norse or Icelandic prose narratives.

The Icelandic sagas are a specific type of legend.

legends vs Folklore

Legends are a part of folklore.

Folklore is the broad category; legends are the specific stories.

Legends are one element of a nation's folklore.

legends vs Key

Both explain map symbols.

They are synonyms in this context, but 'legend' is more common on formal maps.

The map legend (or key) is in the bottom right corner.

句型

He is a legend.

Messi is a legend.

The legends of [Place] are [Adjective].

The legends of the castle are scary.

Legend has it that [Clause].

Legend has it that the gold is hidden here.

[Name] is a living legend in [Field].

She is a living legend in the world of dance.

The legends surrounding [Subject] serve to [Verb].

The legends surrounding the king serve to inspire the people.

The deconstruction of these legends reveals [Noun].

The deconstruction of these legends reveals a complex social history.

Refer to the legend for [Noun].

Refer to the legend for the map symbols.

These legends are deeply rooted in [Noun].

These legends are deeply rooted in our culture.

词族

名词

legend

legendary

动词

legendize (rare)

形容词

legendary

如何使用

frequency

Very common in both casual and formal English.

常见错误

Using 'legends' for gods. → Using 'myths' for gods.
Legends are primarily about humans, while myths are about supernatural beings and the origins of the world.
Saying 'He has a great legends.' → Saying 'He has a great legacy.'
A legacy is what you leave behind; a legend is the story or the person themselves.
Misspelling it as 'legands'. → Spelling it as 'legends'.
The second syllable is spelled with an 'e', not an 'a'.
Using 'index' for a map key. → Using 'legend' for a map key.
In cartography, the explanatory box is specifically called a legend.
Using 'legend' for a minor favor in a formal setting. → Using 'helpful' or 'kind' in a formal setting.
The slang use of 'legend' is too informal for professional environments.

小贴士

Context Matters

Always check if you are talking about a story, a person, or a map key. The meaning changes completely based on the subject.

Plurality

Remember that 'legends' is the plural of 'legend'. Use 'are' with 'legends' and 'is' with 'legend'.

Legend vs. Myth

Use 'legend' for human-centered stories and 'myth' for god-centered stories to sound more like a native speaker.

Casual Praise

In informal settings, 'You're a legend' is a great way to show appreciation, but avoid it in formal business emails.

The 'E' in Legend

Don't forget the 'e' in the middle. Think of the word 'end' to help you remember: leg-end-s.

Map Reading

When looking at a map, the legend is your best friend. It's the first place you should look to understand the symbols.

Living Legends

Use the phrase 'living legend' to describe someone who is still active and highly respected in their field.

Urban Legends

Be skeptical of 'urban legends'. They are often entertaining but rarely based on 100% factual evidence.

Formal Tone

In academic writing, use 'legends' to refer to cultural narratives rather than just 'stories' to sound more professional.

Visual Key

Associate the word 'legend' with a key. Just as a story is a key to a culture's past, a map legend is a key to its symbols.

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of a 'LEG' at the 'END' of a story. The 'LEG-END' is the part people remember and talk about for years.

视觉联想

Imagine an old, dusty book with a glowing sword on the cover, sitting next to a modern map with a clear key in the corner.

Word Web

History Fame Maps Heroes Stories Tradition Icons Folklore

挑战

Try to use 'legends' in three different ways today: once for a story, once for a person you admire, and once for a chart or map.

词源

Derived from the Old French 'legende', which comes from the Medieval Latin 'legenda' meaning 'things to be read.' In the early Christian church, this referred specifically to the stories of the lives of saints that were read aloud.

原始含义： Stories to be read, specifically about saints.

Indo-European (Latin branch)

文化背景

Be careful when calling religious stories 'legends' in a way that implies they are 'untrue,' as this can be offensive to believers.

In the UK and Australia, 'legend' is a very high but casual compliment for a friend.

King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving League of Legends (popular video game)

在生活中练习

真实语境

History/Literature

Ancient legends
Passed down through generations
Historical basis
Myth and legend

Sports/Entertainment

Living legend
All-time greats
Hall of fame
Iconic status

Cartography/Data

Map legend
Key to symbols
Refer to the legend
Explanatory box

Casual Conversation

You're a legend
Absolute legend
Urban legend
Legend has it

Travel/Tourism

Local legends
Haunted legends
Legendary landmarks
Stories of the past

对话开场白

"What are some of the most famous legends from your home country?"

"Do you believe that any modern athletes will be considered legends in 100 years?"

"Have you ever heard an urban legend that actually turned out to be true?"

"Who is a 'living legend' that you would most like to meet in person?"

"Why do you think people enjoy telling legends even if they aren't completely true?"

日记主题

Write about a person in your life who you consider a 'legend' and explain why.

Describe a local legend from your town and how it influences the people who live there.

If you could be a 'legend' in any field, which one would it be and what would you want to be known for?

Compare a famous legend from the past with a modern-day hero. How are they similar?

Reflect on why maps and charts need legends. How does this technical meaning relate to the 'story' meaning?

常见问题

10 个问题

Legends usually have a basis in historical fact, but they have been embellished over time. While the core person or event might be real, the supernatural or heroic details are often fictional. For example, the legend of Troy was based on a real city, but the Trojan Horse might be a literary invention.

Yes, we use the term 'living legend' to describe people who have achieved such great things that they are already famous and respected like historical figures. This is common in sports, music, and science. It is a way of saying their impact is already permanent.

The main difference is the subject. Myths usually deal with gods, the creation of the world, and supernatural origins. Legends usually focus on human beings and events that are supposed to have happened in human history. Myths are more religious, while legends are more historical.

The word comes from the Latin 'legenda,' which means 'things to be read.' On a map, the legend is the part that must be read in order to understand what the symbols and colors represent. It is the 'reading key' for the visual information.

Urban legends are modern stories that circulate as true, often involving scary, funny, or mysterious events. They are usually 'friend-of-a-friend' stories. They serve as modern folklore and often contain a warning or a moral lesson about contemporary life.

You can say 'He is a legend' or 'She is one of the legends of the industry.' In casual English, you can also say 'You're a legend!' to thank someone. It functions as a noun that describes the person's status or character.

No, you can use 'legend' in the singular. 'The legend of Sleepy Hollow' refers to one story. 'He is a legend' refers to one person. 'The map legend' refers to one key. We use 'legends' when talking about multiple stories or a group of famous people.

This idiom describes something so amazing or impressive that it seems like it belongs in a legendary story. For example, 'His performance was the stuff of legends' means it was incredibly good and will be remembered for a long time.

Yes, almost every culture has legends. They are a way for people to pass down their history, values, and identity. Whether it's the legends of the Samurai in Japan or the legends of the Aztecs in Mexico, they are a universal human way of storytelling.

It started as a word for religious stories about saints (14th century). Then it became a word for any traditional story (15th century). Later, it was used for map keys (17th century). In the 20th century, it began to be used to describe very famous and successful people.

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