01
der Bischof
bishop
A high-ranking clerical dignitary in Christian churches who usually leads a bishopric or diocese.
example
Der Bischof von Rom ist der Papst.
The Bishop of Rome is the Pope.
der Bischof
bishop
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
Other terms that are important in a church context are derived from the word 'Bischof' (bishop). The adjective is 'bischöflich' (episcopal), and the area led by a bishop is called 'das Bistum' (the bishopric/diocese).
EXAMPLE
Die bischöfliche Residenz befindet sich neben dem Dom.
The episcopal residence is located next to the cathedral.
Context clue
You can easily recognize from context whether the cleric or the chess piece is meant. Words like 'Kirche' (church), 'Glaube' (faith), or 'weihen' (to consecrate) point to the religious meaning, while 'Schachbrett' (chessboard), 'Partie' (game), or 'ziehen' (to move) refer to the chess piece.
EXAMPLE
Der Bischof weihte die neue Kirche ein.
The bishop consecrated the new church.
Typical collocations
In a religious context, a bishop is often associated with certain actions. Typical verbs are 'weihen' (to consecrate/ordain), 'ernennen' (to appoint), or 'predigen' (to preach).
EXAMPLE
Der Papst wird einen neuen Bischof für die Diözese ernennen.
The Pope will appoint a new bishop for the diocese.
Use in chess
In Germany, the chess piece is almost always called 'der Läufer' (bishop). The term 'Bischof' (bishop) for the piece is correct, but rare, and is often used only by players who play internationally or know the English terms.
EXAMPLE
Mein Läufer bedroht jetzt deine Dame.
My bishop is now threatening your queen.
Compare with
Bischof vs Pfarrer
pastor
'Pfarrer' and 'Bischof' both refer to clerical people in Christian churches. They can be confused because both lead church services and have religious duties. The difference lies in their role. A Pfarrer usually works directly in a congregation and looks after the people locally. A Bischof has a higher position and normally leads a larger area, for example a bishopric or diocese. When it is about the church in a village or town, the Pfarrer is often meant. When it is about leading a larger church region, Bischof fits.
Bischof
Morgen besucht der Bischof mehrere Gemeinden in der Region.
Tomorrow the bishop is visiting several congregations in the region.
Pfarrer
Nach dem Gottesdienst haben wir kurz mit dem Pfarrer gesprochen.
After the service, we spoke briefly with the pastor.
In real life
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