A legend in one's own lifetime

Definitions

• fame and recognition
  To describe someone who is widely known and celebrated during their lifetime, rather than becoming famous after their death

• exceptional or extraordinary
  To describe someone who is incredibly talented, skilled, or successful in their field, often achieving incredible feats or accomplishments that are considered legendary

Examples of A legend in one's own lifetime

• Oprah Winfrey is a true legend in her own lifetime. She has built an empire through her talk show and media company, and has been a trailblazer for women and minorities in the industry. Her influence and impact on society are undeniable, and she is widely respected and admired by her peers and fans alike.

  This idiom, "a legend in one's own lifetime," is used to describe someone who achieves great fame and acclaim during their own lifetime, to the point that they become something of a myth in their own right. This person is not only a successful and influential figure in their field, but they are also widely admired and revered by others. The use of the word "legend" implies that this person's accomplishments and reputation are almost larger than life, and that their impact on society will be felt for generations to come. In the case of Oprah Winfrey, her influence and impact on society are undeniable, and she is widely regarded as a true icon and inspiration to many.

• Oprah Winfrey is a legend in her own lifetime.

  Oprah Winfrey's success and influence have earned her a legendary status in her own time. She is widely respected and admired by millions of people around the world, and her achievements and contributions to society have made her a role model and inspiration to many.

• Elon Musk's visionary ideas and groundbreaking innovations have made him a legend in his own lifetime.

  Elon Musk's innovative ideas, entrepreneurial spirit, and relentless pursuit of success have made him a legend in his own lifetime. His success and influence in various industries, from space exploration to electric cars, have earned him a place among the most influential and respected figures of our time.

• Michael Jackson's music, dance moves, and charisma made him a legend in his own lifetime.

  Michael Jackson's impact on the music industry and popular culture is unparalleled. His unique musical style, iconic dance moves, and larger-than-life persona made him a legend in his own lifetime. His music and legacy continue to inspire and influence generations of artists and fans around the world.

• Serena Williams' phenomenal tennis career has made her a legend in her own lifetime.

  Serena Williams' exceptional talent, athleticism, and determination have made her a legend in her own lifetime. She has won numerous Grand Slam titles and broken several records in the sport, cementing her place as one of the greatest tennis players of all time. Her impact on the sport and her influence on the next generation of tennis players continue to be felt.

• Michael Jackson was a legend in his own lifetime.

  This idiom refers to someone who is overly self-inflated and considers themselves to be a famous and respected figure, even if they are not truly celebrated by others. In Michael Jackson's case, his immense popularity during his career, extravagant stages shows, and influential music made him a true legend in the music industry. However, the idiom implies that this self-perception may have been exaggerated or perhaps not entirely accurate.

• Oprah Winfrey is a legend in her own lifetime.

  Oprah Winfrey's multimedia empire and numerous accolades have made her one of the most influential women in the world. However, this idiom suggests that her perception of her own greatness may have exceeded her actual cultural impact.

• O.J. Simpson became a legend in his own lifetime due to his criminal trial.

  Although Simpson was a well-known football player and actor before his infamous trial, his notoriety during the criminal trial and subsequent acquittal brought him even greater fame. This level of acclaim led some to perceive him as a unique figure or hero, even after the verdict was overturned due to double jeopardy laws.

Conclusion

The idiom "a legend in one's own lifetime" is commonly used to describe someone who has achieved fame and recognition during their lifetime, rather than after their death. It can also be used to describe someone who is exceptional or extraordinary in their talents and accomplishments.

Origin of "A legend in one's own lifetime"

The origin of this idiom is believed to come from the Greek historian, Plutarch, who coined the phrase "a living myth" to describe the Greek philosopher, Pythagoras. The phrase was later translated into Latin as "legendae in vitae suae," which eventually evolved into the English idiom "a legend in one's own lifetime."

The idiom gained widespread use in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly in the world of entertainment and sports. It was often used to describe individuals who achieved great success and fame during their lifetime, such as musicians, actors, and athletes. The idiom has also been used in a more figurative sense, to describe individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields and are considered legends in their own right.