founder
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founder
A male person who brings something into being, founds it, or initiates it, such as a company, a scientific theory, or a movement.
Konrad Zuse gilt als einer der Begründer der Computertechnik.
Konrad Zuse is considered one of the founders of computer technology.
'Der Begründer' (the founder) is derived from the verb 'begründen' (to found/establish). This verb in turn contains the noun 'der Grund' (foundation, basis). A 'Begründer' is therefore someone who symbolically lays the foundation stone for something.
Er gilt als Begründer der modernen Psychologie.
He is considered the founder of modern psychology.
Very often, 'der Begründer' (the founder) is followed by a noun in the genitive to say what was founded. Alternatively, the preposition 'von' with the dative can also be used.
Steve Jobs war einer der Begründer der Firma Apple.
Steve Jobs was one of the founders of the Apple company.
The word is often used for people who initiated something important or new. Typical combinations are 'Begründer einer Theorie' (founder of a theory), 'einer Religion' (of a religion), 'einer Bewegung' (of a movement), or 'eines Unternehmens' (of a company).
Martin Luther war der Begründer des Protestantismus.
Martin Luther was the founder of Protestantism.
father
'der Vater' and 'der Begründer' can both mean a person who started something or brought it into being. 'Begründer' is the more precise and factual word, for example for a theory, a movement, or a company. In this meaning, 'Vater' is used figuratively and often sounds appreciative: the person is seen as the origin of something important. If you want to speak clearly and neutrally about founding something, 'Begründer' fits better. 'Vater' fits when the achievement is meant to be especially emphasized.
Der Begründer der Theorie erklärte seine Idee zuerst in einem kurzen Text.
The founder of the theory first explained his idea in a short text.
In vielen Büchern wird er als Vater dieser Bewegung beschrieben.
In many books, he is described as the father of this movement.