legends - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
legends Word Meanings
- a traditional story sometimes popularly regarded as historical but unauthenticated
- a key to a map or diagram that explains symbols
- a person of remarkable importance or fame
legends Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
legends Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈlɛdʒ.ənd/
US
/ˈlɛdʒ.ənd/
legends Word Etymology
From Latin 'legenda' meaning 'things to be read' (from 'legere' = to read). Came into Old French as 'legende' and then to English. Imagine an ancient scroll being read aloud by a storyteller at a campfire, sharing tales that captivate the audience.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I pick up a map, move my finger along the ink, and slowly turn the page to follow a line. A small legend sits in the corner, and I push my attention toward it, letting the symbols click into place. As the meaning shifts from vague lines to a story or a marker I can use, I feel the effort of keeping focus. When I use the word in conversation or notes, the scene stays with me, and I sense how a legend can be a map, a tale, or a famous person.
Real Context
Legend is a flexible English word with three core senses. It can name a traditional story that is widely believed to be historical yet unproven, such as the legend of King Arthur. It can also mean the key on a map or diagram that explains symbols. And finally, it can describe a person of remarkable fame or importance, as in “a living legend.” The word blends narrative appeal with iconography, so learners should note its nuance: legends often sit between myth and history, while a map legend is a straightforward caption. Pronunciation is LEG-end, with stress on the first syllable.
Usage Reminders
- - Legend has multiple senses: story, map key, and famous person.
- - Legends are not the same as myths; myths are traditional stories with sacred or mythical content.
- - On maps, legend is the explanatory key for symbols.
- - Describe famous people as a legend or living legend, not as a myth.
- - Pronounce LEG-end with stress on the first syllable; plural legends when talking about more than one.
Common Misconceptions
- Legends always refer to myths or heroic tales as fact.
- A map legend is the same as the story legend.
- Only dead people can be called legends.
- Legend and legendary are interchangeable as nouns.
- Legends must be about famous cities or kings.
Thinking Differences
Legend in English often travels between myth, history, and homage to famous people; learners may mis-handle its map vs narrative senses. Keep map legends separate from stories and use 'living legend' for admired individuals.
Learning Tips
- Listen to the three senses in example sentences and note differences.
- Practice pronouncing LEG-end with emphasis on the first syllable.
- Create flashcards for each meaning: story, map legend, famous person.
- Use 'a living legend' for admired people and 'legendary' as an adjective.
- Compare with myth and folklore to feel the nuance.
- Read map legends in real texts (maps, diagrams) to see usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'legends' mean?
A.Tall tales or stories from the past
B.A type of plant
C.An everyday occurrence
D.A specific type of fish
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'legends' correctly?
A.I love collecting legends of rare stamps.
B.The movie featured legends of ancient heroes.
C.She baked a cake full of legends.
D.The legends are unimportant for our discussion.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'legends'?
A.Myths
B.Fiction
C.Structures
D.Fables
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'legends'?
A.Facts
B.Stories
C.Dreams
D.Traditions
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where tales from the past are significant?
A.During the history class, students discussed various legends.
B.The restaurant serves a menu of legends from around the world.
C.The modern art exhibition showcased several legends of the local culture.
D.Many children learn important lessons from timeless tales.
Related Listening
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The Legend of Swiss Watchmaking: Time's Timeless Tale
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