eldest / elder
die Älteste, die Ältesten
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eldest
The oldest person in a family or group, especially the oldest child or oldest son.
Der Älteste in der Familie übernimmt nach dem Tod des Vaters die Verantwortung.
After the father's death, the eldest in the family takes responsibility.
elder
A person who holds a leadership or advisory position in a community because of their age or experience, especially in a religious congregation.
Die Ältesten der Gemeinde entschieden gemeinsam über die wichtige Frage.
The elders of the congregation made the important decision together.
| gender | feminine die |
|---|---|
| plural | die Ältesten |
| genitive | der Ältesten |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | die Älteste | die Ältesten |
| accusative | die Älteste | die Ältesten |
| dative | der Ältesten | den Ältesten |
| genitive | der Ältesten | der Ältesten |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
'Der Älteste' (the eldest / the oldest) is a superlative adjective derived from 'alt' (old) that has been turned into a noun and therefore refers to a person. The adjective is consequently capitalized and can be used with an article or a preposition.
Wir haben den Ältesten zuerst um Rat gefragt.
We asked the eldest for advice first.
Sie saß neben dem Ältesten der Familie.
She sat next to the eldest in the family.
When referring to the oldest family member, 'der Älteste' (the eldest) often appears with phrases such as 'der Familie' (of the family), 'der Geschwister' (of the siblings), or 'der Kinder' (of the children). Depending on the context, the expression can refer to the oldest son or, more generally, the oldest child.
Der Älteste der Geschwister studiert inzwischen in einer anderen Stadt.
The eldest of the siblings is now studying in another city.
In the context of a congregation or community, 'der Älteste' (the elder) often indicates a leadership or advisory role. Typical collocations are 'die Ältesten der Gemeinde' (the elders of the congregation) and 'der Rat der Ältesten' (the council of elders).
Der Älteste der Gemeinde leitete die Versammlung.
The elder of the congregation led the meeting.
