angel
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angel
A supernatural, spiritual being that is considered a messenger of God in many religions and is often depicted with wings.
In der Bibel überbringt ein Engel Maria eine wichtige Nachricht.
In the Bible, an angel brings Mary an important message.
The figurative meaning ('good person') can be recognized from context. It is often used as a direct form of address or as a big compliment in everyday life. The literal, religious meaning is found in texts about religion, art, or mythology.
Der Fremde half mir mit meinem Gepäck, er war ein echter Engel.
The stranger helped me with my luggage; he was a real angel.
A very common compound word is 'der Schutzengel' (guardian angel). It describes an angel who is supposed to protect a particular person, often also in the figurative sense of a rescuer in times of need.
Bei dem Unfall hatte ich wirklich einen Schutzengel.
I really had a guardian angel in that accident.
To thank someone for their help, the fixed expression 'Du bist ein Engel!' (You're an angel!) or 'Du bist ein echter Engel!' (You're a real angel!) is often used. This is a very warm compliment.
Danke, dass du auf die Kinder aufgepasst hast, du bist ein Engel!
Thank you for looking after the children; you're an angel!
Using 'Engel' (angel) for a helpful person is colloquial and emotional. In formal situations, you would generally not use this term.
Meine Nachbarin gießt immer meine Blumen, wenn ich im Urlaub bin. Sie ist ein Engel.
My neighbor always waters my flowers when I'm on vacation. She's an angel.
spirit / mind
'der Geist' and 'der Engel' can both refer to supernatural beings. That is why they can easily be confused in stories or religious texts. A 'Geist' here is usually the soul of a deceased person that appears without a body. An 'Engel', by contrast, is a spiritual being that is often understood as a messenger of God and is often depicted with wings. If the topic is haunting or the dead, 'Geist' fits better. If the topic is religion, protection, or a divine messenger, 'Engel' is more natural.
Auf dem Bild steht ein Engel neben dem Kind und hält seine Hand über es.
In the picture, an angel stands next to the child and holds his hand over him.
Im alten Haus soll nachts der Geist eines früheren Besitzers zu sehen sein.
In the old house, the ghost of a former owner is said to appear at night.