archangel
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archangel
In various religions (especially Judaism, Christianity, and Islam), an angel of especially high rank who takes on a leading role.
Der Erzengel Gabriel überbrachte Maria der Überlieferung nach eine wichtige Botschaft.
According to tradition, the archangel Gabriel delivered an important message to Mary.
The prefix 'Erz-' indicates the highest rank or an archetypal form. An 'Erzengel' (archangel) is therefore an angel of the highest rank. You can also find this prefix in other words such as 'Erzfeind' (archenemy) or 'Erzbischof' (archbishop).
In der Geschichte kämpfte der Held gegen seinen Erzfeind.
In the story, the hero fought against his archenemy.
This word is used almost exclusively in religious, mythological, or fantasy contexts. It rarely occurs in normal everyday life, unless people are talking about these topics.
In dem Fantasy-Roman erschien ein mächtiger Erzengel.
In the fantasy novel, a powerful archangel appeared.
Very often, the word 'Erzengel' (archangel) is directly connected with a name. The best-known examples in the German cultural sphere are der Erzengel Michael (the archangel Michael), der Erzengel Gabriel (the archangel Gabriel), and der Erzengel Raphael (the archangel Raphael).
Der Erzengel Michael wird oft als Kämpfer dargestellt.
The archangel Michael is often depicted as a fighter.
angel
'Engel' and 'Erzengel' both belong to the religious sphere and refer to supernatural beings. 'Engel' is the general term. 'Erzengel' is more specific and means an angel with an especially high rank or a special task. The words can be confused because every 'Erzengel' is an 'Engel'. But not every 'Engel' is an 'Erzengel'. If rank does not matter, 'Engel' is more natural.
Im Religionsunterricht spricht der Lehrer über den Erzengel Gabriel.
In religious education class, the teacher talks about the archangel Gabriel.
Im Weihnachtsstück trägt das Kind ein weißes Kostüm und spielt einen Engel.
In the Christmas play, the child wears a white costume and plays an angel.