diplomat
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diplomat
A person who officially represents their country in another country and is responsible for maintaining international relations.
Der deutsche Diplomat wurde zu Gesprächen ins Außenministerium einberufen.
The German diplomat was summoned to the Foreign Ministry for talks.
diplomat
Figuratively, a person who is very skillful, tactful, and prudent in dealing with other people, especially in difficult situations.
Er ist ein echter Diplomat; er hat den Streit zwischen den Kollegen geschlichtet, ohne jemanden zu verletzen.
He is a real diplomat; he settled the dispute between the colleagues without hurting anyone.
'Diplomat' belongs to the word family of 'Diplomatie' (diplomacy / international relations) and 'diplomatisch' (diplomatic / clever and tactful). Knowing the word family makes it easier to remember both meanings of the noun.
In dieser heiklen Situation ist diplomatisches Geschick gefragt.
In this delicate situation, diplomatic skill is required.
The two meanings can be distinguished well: If it is about the profession, politics, or international relations, the official person is meant. If it is about personal or professional behavior in difficult situations, the tactful person is meant.
Als Diplomat reist er sehr viel zwischen verschiedenen Ländern.
As a diplomat, he travels a great deal between different countries.
The figurative meaning is often used as a compliment. When you call someone 'einen echten Diplomaten' (a real diplomat), you are praising their ability to resolve conflicts skillfully and fairly.
Danke für deine Hilfe bei dem Streit. Du bist wirklich ein Diplomat!
Thanks for your help with the argument. You really are a diplomat!
ambassador
A Diplomat represents their country abroad and maintains international relations. An ambassador is a diplomat who holds the highest diplomatic office in another country. Use Diplomat for the profession in general and Botschafter for this specific senior position.
Als Diplomat arbeitet Herr Weber in der diplomatischen Vertretung seines Landes in Japan.
As a diplomat, Mr. Weber works at his country's diplomatic mission in Japan.
Als Botschafter leitet Herr Weber die diplomatische Vertretung seines Landes in Japan.
As ambassador, Mr. Weber heads his country's diplomatic mission in Japan.
