elf
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elf
A mythical creature from myths and legends, often portrayed as a small, delicate, human-like being with magical powers that usually lives in nature.
In dem Fantasy-Roman freundet sich der Held mit einer weisen Elfe an.
In the fantasy novel, the hero befriends a wise elf.
dragonfly
An outdated or poetic term for a dragonfly, an insect with a long body and two pairs of large, transparent wings that is often found near bodies of water.
Eine blau schimmernde Elfe tanzte über der Wasseroberfläche des Teiches.
A blue-shimmering dragonfly danced above the surface of the pond.
To distinguish the two meanings, pay attention to the context. If you are talking about myths, magic, or fantasy stories, the mythical creature is meant. In texts about nature, ponds, or insects, the poetic term for a dragonfly may be meant.
Im Märchenbuch tanzten die Elfen im Mondlicht.
In the fairy-tale book, the elves danced in the moonlight.
When Elfen are mentioned as mythical creatures, they are often associated with certain qualities. These include 'unsterblich' (immortal), 'naturverbunden' (close to nature), 'anmutig' (graceful), or 'magisch begabt' (magically gifted).
Die Elfen in dieser Geschichte sind unsterblich und leben tief im Wald.
The elves in this story are immortal and live deep in the forest.
The use of 'Elfe' (elf/dragonfly) for a dragonfly is very rare today and is considered outdated or poetic. In normal usage, you will hardly ever hear this meaning.
Der Dichter beschrieb die über dem Bach tanzenden Elfen.
The poet described the dragonflies dancing above the stream.
fairy
Both words can refer to a small female mythical creature with magical powers. A „Fee“ (fairy) is often portrayed as a benevolent figure who can grant wishes, while an „Elfe“ (elf) tends to appear delicate, human-like, and connected with nature. However, the portrayals overlap depending on the story.
Die zarte Elfe lebte in einer Blume mitten im Wald.
The delicate elf lived inside a flower deep in the forest.
Die Fee erfüllte dem Mädchen in der Geschichte drei Wünsche.
In the story, the fairy granted the girl three wishes.
