Relating to an empire or an emperor; imperial. It often describes power, grandeur, or architecture associated with an empire.
example
Die imperialen Bauten in Wien zeugen von der einstigen Macht der Habsburger.
The imperial buildings in Vienna bear witness to the former power of the Habsburgs.
Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'imperial' belongs to the word family around 'das Imperium' (empire). It describes things that are connected with such an empire.
EXAMPLE
Das Römische Imperium hatte eine imperiale Verwaltung.
The Roman Empire had an imperial administration.
Register
'Imperial' is a word used in elevated language. It is mainly used in formal, historical, or architectural contexts.
EXAMPLE
Die Ausstellung zeigt Kunst aus der imperialen Epoche Chinas.
The exhibition shows art from China's imperial era.
Typical collocations
In its literal meaning, 'imperial' is often combined with nouns that describe power, rule, or history. Examples include 'imperiale Macht' (imperial power), 'imperiale Politik' (imperial policy), or 'imperiale Armee' (imperial army).
EXAMPLE
Die imperiale Vergangenheit des Landes ist noch heute sichtbar.
The country's imperial past is still visible today.
Typical collocations
In the figurative, majestic meaning, 'imperial' often describes a splendid style or a luxurious atmosphere. Typical combinations are 'imperialer Glanz' (imperial splendor), 'imperiales Ambiente' (imperial ambience), or 'imperialer Stil' (imperial style).
EXAMPLE
Die Suite im Grand Hotel hatte eine imperiale Einrichtung.
The suite in the Grand Hotel had majestic furnishings.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
imperial vs königlich
royal
'königlich' and 'imperial' can both describe something stately, splendid, or very grand. Literally, the difference is clear: 'königlich' refers to a king, a queen, or a kingdom. 'imperial' refers to an empire or an emperor and often sounds more formal or historical. Figuratively, both can stand for something magnificent, but 'königlich' is more natural in everyday language, for example with food or enjoyment. 'imperial' fits better with architecture, style, power, or history. They can be confused because both are connected with rule and splendor.
imperial
Für das Projekt hat ich viele Fotos von imperialen Gebäuden in Wien gesammelt.
For the project, I collected many photos of imperial buildings in Vienna.
königlich
Nach der langen Wanderung essen wir ein königliches Frühstück im Hotel.
After the long hike, we eat a royal breakfast at the hotel.