prince
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prince
A nobleman who rules as a sovereign or partly sovereign ruler over a territory, a principality. In rank, he is below a king but above a count.
Der Fürst von Monaco ist das Staatsoberhaupt des Fürstentums.
The Prince of Monaco is the head of state of the principality.
The word 'Fürst' (prince) is closely related to the verb 'führen' (to lead). Historically speaking, the 'Fürst' was the 'leader' or the 'first' in a territory, which describes his role as ruler.
Der Fürst führte sein Volk durch schwere Zeiten.
The prince led his people through difficult times.
The title 'Fürst' (prince) is used today mainly in historical contexts or for the rulers of a few modern principalities such as Liechtenstein or Monaco. In general usage, it is rare.
Das Buch handelt von einem deutschen Fürsten im Mittelalter.
The book is about a German prince in the Middle Ages.
In its figurative meaning, 'Fürst' (magnate) is often used as part of compound nouns to describe a powerful person in a field. Typical examples are 'Medienfürst' (media magnate), 'Baufürst' (construction magnate), or 'Industriefürst' (industrial magnate).
Als einflussreicher Verleger galt er als der Medienfürst des Landes.
As an influential publisher, he was considered the country's media magnate.
You usually recognize the figurative meaning by its combination with an economic or social field. The literal meaning as a noble title often stands alone or with a geographic name, e.g. 'Fürst von ...' (Prince of ...).
Er war ein Fürst der Finanzwelt.
He was a magnate of the financial world.
king
'der König' and 'der Fürst' can both mean noble rulers. They are therefore easy to confuse, especially in historical texts. However, a king rules over a kingdom and has a higher rank. A 'Fürst' rules over a smaller territory, a principality, and ranks below a king. When referring to an entire kingdom, 'König' is more precise. When referring to a lower noble title or a principality, 'Fürst' fits.
Der Fürst regierte nur ein kleines Gebiet in den Bergen.
The prince ruled only a small territory in the mountains.
Der König empfing die Gäste im großen Saal des Schlosses.
The king received the guests in the great hall of the palace.