What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
legend
Example
The legend of King Arthur has been told for centuries. [legend: noun]
Example
She became a legend in the music industry after her hit song. [legend: noun]
Example
According to legend, the city was founded by a group of settlers who sailed across the sea. [legend: noun]
myth
Example
The Greek myth of Demeter and Persephone explains the changing of the seasons. [myth: noun]
Example
Many cultures have their own creation myths that explain how the world began. [myth: noun]
Example
Contrary to popular myth, goldfish do not have a three-second memory. [myth: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Legend is more commonly used than myth in everyday language. Legend is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while myth is less common and usually associated with stories that explain the origins of a particular culture or religion.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between legend and myth?
Both legend and myth can be used in various formality levels, allowing them to be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, myth may be perceived as more informal or even superstitious in some contexts.
