The highest diplomatic representative of a state abroad, who represents their country in another state.
example
Der deutsche Botschafter in Paris wurde zu einem wichtigen Treffen einberufen.
The German ambassador in Paris was summoned to an important meeting.
Usage tips
Word family
A 'Botschafter' (ambassador) is closely connected to the word 'die Botschaft'. A 'Botschaft' is a message or the diplomatic representation of a country (an embassy). So the ambassador delivers the 'Botschaft' (message) of their country.
EXAMPLE
Er arbeitet in der deutschen Botschaft in Rom.
He works at the German embassy in Rome.
Use in a sentence
To name the country where the ambassador is active, you use the preposition 'in' with the dative. The country of origin is usually expressed with an adjective.
EXAMPLE
Der französische Botschafter in Deutschland hält heute eine Rede.
The French ambassador in Germany is giving a speech today.
Use in a sentence
In the figurative meaning, the organization or idea being represented is expressed with the preposition 'für' (+ accusative) or with the genitive.
EXAMPLE
Sie ist Botschafterin für UNICEF.
She is an ambassador for UNICEF.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
Botschafter vs Vertreter
representative / substitute
'der Vertreter' and 'der Botschafter' can both refer to someone who acts on behalf of others and represents them externally. 'Vertreter' is the general term and fits companies, groups, or individual people. In politics, 'Botschafter' is a high-ranking diplomat abroad. Figuratively, it can also be a person who promotes an idea or brand. The words can be confused because both have to do with representation. For official diplomacy, however, you say 'Botschafter', not simply 'Vertreter'.
Botschafter
Der Botschafter begrüßte die Gäste bei einem Empfang in Berlin.
The ambassador greeted the guests at a reception in Berlin.
Vertreter
Am Montag kommt ein Vertreter der Versicherung zu uns ins Büro.
On Monday, a representative from the insurance company is coming to our office.