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Meaning & use

what a legend

phrase·EverydayinformalBritishslang

Last updated

UK/ˌwɒt ə ˈledʒənd/
US/ˌwɑːt ə ˈledʒənd/

Meanings

  1. phrasefixed phraseapproving

    An exclamation praising someone who has done something kind, impressive, funny or helpful.

    Grammar: Said as a whole exclamation, sometimes with the person's name: what a legend, Sam.

    Patterns

    • what a legend

    He drove me to the airport at 4 a.m. - what a legend.

    She baked cakes for the whole team. What a legend!

    Our neighbor fixed the fence for free, what a legend.

  2. phrasefixed phraseapproving

    Said about a person who is greatly admired for lasting achievements, especially in sport or music.

    Grammar: Said when reacting to news or a performance: what a legend he was.

    Patterns

    • what a legend

    He scored in his final match, what a legend.

    The singer finished the concert with a ten-minute solo, what a legend.

    After forty years as coach, what a legend he has been.

Common combinations

absolute legend
You brought me lunch? You are an absolute legend.
what a legend
He paid for everyone's tea, what a legend.
total legend
Our teacher is a total legend.
living legend
The old drummer is a living legend.
you legend
You got the tickets? You legend!

Synonyms and how they differ

what a star
What a star is a similar warm British compliment for someone helpful, but it is slightly gentler and less playful.
what a hero
What a hero is often used jokingly for small favors, while what a legend is more widely used and more casual.
you're the best
You're the best is direct and works anywhere, while what a legend is slangier and sounds typically British.
what a champ
What a champ stresses ability or a win, while what a legend thanks someone for generosity or style.

Word family

legend noun
a famous person or a traditional story
legendary adjective
very famous or admired
legendarily adverb
in a famous or remarkable way

Commonly confused: what a legend or legend vs myth?

what a legend vs legend vs myth

A legend is a traditional story or a famous figure, while a myth is a traditional story that is usually not true, so what a legend as praise has no link to untrue stories.

Practice

Your friend lends you their car for the weekend. Which reply fits best in friendly British speech?

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