freedom fighter
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freedom fighter
A person who actively fights for political independence or for the liberation of their people or country from oppression.
Nelson Mandela wird weltweit als bedeutender Freiheitskämpfer verehrt.
Nelson Mandela is honored around the world as an important freedom fighter.
The word consists of 'die Freiheit' (freedom), the linking -s, and 'der Kämpfer' (fighter). So it literally refers to a person who fights for freedom.
Die Geschichte des Landes ehrt viele Männer und Frauen als Freiheitskämpfer.
The history of the country honors many men and women as freedom fighters.
This term has a strongly positive, political meaning. It is used for people who fight against oppression and often expresses sympathy for their goal.
Die Rebellen sahen sich selbst als Freiheitskämpfer für ihr Volk.
The rebels saw themselves as freedom fighters for their people.
The goals and opponents of a freedom fighter are usually expressed with prepositions. In German, you fight 'für' (for) something, e.g. independence, and 'gegen' (against) someone or something, e.g. a regime or oppression.
Die Freiheitskämpfer kämpften für die Befreiung ihrer Heimat.
The freedom fighters fought for the liberation of their homeland.
terrorist
Both terms can refer to a person involved in a political struggle. „Freiheitskämpfer“ emphasizes fighting for the independence or liberation of a people, while „Terrorist“ emphasizes systematic violence and the spread of fear. The choice therefore also depends on one’s perspective on the goal and the methods.
Für seine Anhänger war er ein Freiheitskämpfer, weil er für die Unabhängigkeit seines Landes kämpfte.
To his supporters, he was a freedom fighter because he fought for his country’s independence.
Für die betroffene Bevölkerung war er ein Terrorist, weil seine Gruppe wiederholt Gewalt und Angst verbreitete.
To the affected population, he was a terrorist because his group repeatedly spread violence and fear.
