"Legendary" vs. "mythical": how these words set stories apart

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper Today, 17:26

English.me team member

Legendary and mythical. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "legendary" and "mythical" refer to things that are well-known through stories or folklore and are often associated with something extraordinary, unreal, or of great fame. They can both describe something or someone that is not easily verified or may not actually exist.

What is different?

"Legendary" typically emphasizes fame or renown, describing someone or something celebrated in stories, whether real or not. "Mythical" more specifically refers to objects, beings, or events that exist purely in myth or traditional tales, often implying they are imaginary or not based in reality.

Which one is more common?

Examples of usage

Legendary

The legendary king ruled the land with wisdom and courage.
She gave a legendary performance that people still talk about today.
His legendary status was cemented by his heroic deeds.

Mythical

The unicorn is a mythical creature mentioned in ancient tales.
He embarked on a quest to find the mythical lost city.
Dragons are common in many mythical stories around the world.