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kaiserlich
imperial
Related to an emperor or an empire; coming from the emperor or belonging to him.
example
Der Gesandte überbrachte einen kaiserlichen Befehl.
The envoy delivered an imperial order.
kaiserlich
imperial
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'kaiserlich' (imperial) is derived directly from the noun 'der Kaiser' (emperor). It describes everything that belongs to an emperor or an empire.
EXAMPLE
Die Touristen besichtigten den kaiserlichen Palast in Wien.
The tourists visited the imperial palace in Vienna.
Fixed expression
The expression 'kaiserliches Wetter' is a fixed idiom for very nice, sunny weather. Sometimes it is also called 'Kaiserwetter'.
EXAMPLE
Am Wochenende soll es kaiserliches Wetter geben, perfekt für einen Ausflug.
There is supposed to be glorious weather at the weekend, perfect for a trip.
Historical context
The adjective 'kaiserlich' (imperial) is mostly used today in a historical context, when talking about monarchies such as the Roman Empire, Austria-Hungary, or the German Empire.
EXAMPLE
Die Ausstellung zeigt das Leben am kaiserlichen Hof um 1900.
The exhibition shows life at the imperial court around 1900.
Typical collocations
In its main meaning, 'kaiserlich' (imperial) is often combined with nouns that describe a ruler's power, possessions, or family, e.g. 'kaiserliche Krone' (imperial crown), 'kaiserliche Armee' (imperial army), or 'kaiserliche Familie' (imperial family).
EXAMPLE
Das Museum stellt die kaiserlichen Juwelen aus.
The museum is exhibiting the imperial jewels.
Compare with
kaiserlich vs herrlich
wonderful
'herrlich' and 'kaiserlich' can both express that something is very beautiful, magnificent, or pleasant. 'Herrlich' is the normal word for many beautiful things: weather, food, a view, or a feeling. 'Kaiserlich' sounds more special and somewhat elevated or figurative. It fits especially when something seems very splendid, and the expression 'kaiserliches Wetter' (glorious weather) is especially well known for bright sunshine. In its literal meaning, 'kaiserlich' has to do with an emperor; then it is not the same as 'herrlich'.
kaiserlich
Am Sonntag hatten wir kaiserliches Wetter und saßen den ganzen Tag draußen.
On Sunday we had glorious weather and sat outside all day.
herrlich
Nach dem Regen riecht die Luft im Garten herrlich frisch.
After the rain, the air in the garden smells wonderfully fresh.
In real life
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