der Admiral
admiral
One of the highest military ranks for officers in the navy.
EXAMPLE
Der Admiral gab der Flotte den Befehl zum Auslaufen.
The admiral gave the fleet the order to set sail.
der Admiral
admiral
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Meanings
der Admiral
red admiral
A well-known, colorful butterfly with a mostly velvety black base color and a distinctive orange-red band.
EXAMPLE
Im Spätsommer kann man oft den Admiral auf Fallobst im Garten beobachten.
In late summer, you can often observe the red admiral on fallen fruit in the garden.
Usage tips
Context clue
The two meanings are clearly separated by context. If the sentences talk about the military, ships, or the navy, the officer is meant. If they are about nature, the garden, insects, or colors, the butterfly is meant.
EXAMPLE
Der Admiral inspizierte die Flotte im Hafen.
The admiral inspected the fleet in the harbor.
Military rank
In the military meaning, 'Admiral' refers to one of the highest officer ranks exclusively in the navy. It is the counterpart to a general in the army or air force.
EXAMPLE
Der Admiral befehligte die gesamte Marineoperation.
The admiral commanded the entire naval operation.
Typical context
The butterfly 'Admiral' (red admiral) is often found in late summer and autumn. It is attracted to ripe fruit, which is why you often see it on apples or pears lying on the ground.
EXAMPLE
Im Garten saßen mehrere Admirale auf den überreifen Pflaumen.
Several red admirals were sitting on the overripe plums in the garden.
In real life
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