Whether it's at an international standard or the grass roots level, commentators, team mates, parents and just about everyone else with an opinion has at some stage dedicated the above terms to a favourite player, a loved one or even a rival.
In truth, when emotion is minimised, more often than not those titles are used far too liberally.
Sometimes, however, they are warranted and one such player any of those three terms applies to is George Smith.
George, Jorge or Horhay as he is known throughout world rugby will this week play his 100th Test when the Wallabies clash with the All Blacks at Eden Park in Auckland.
He is the first breakaway to do so and now sits 10th on the all-time list for most Tests played internationally behind another famous Australian George - Gregan, who currently leads the pack with 139 matches.
At the ripe old age of 29 (it was his birthday earlier this week) and with Smith signed to the ARU for another two years, that record may not be safe!
And speaking of records - in the 99 Tests Smith has played in his career so far he has started 85, the Wallabies have won 62 and you can almost guarantee that the flying flanker from Manly was one of Australia's best players each and every time. Probably better in the 36 losses and one draw too.
You see Smith is a man who gives his all every time he takes the field. A no-nonsense backrower with the sublime skills of a mid field player. The sort of guy other teams game plan for but can rarely stop. A shy bloke by nature who's become a leader now too, Smith is someone for all to look up to.
Quite simply, anyone who plays 100 rugby Tests can be at times termed a 'a champion' or 'a legend' or 'one of the greats'.
George Smith is all three, all the time.
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