caliph
der Kalif, die Kalifen
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caliph
The title of an Islamic ruler who claims political and religious leadership of the Muslim community as a successor to the Prophet Muhammad; also the holder of this title.
Der Kalif Harun ar-Raschid regierte von Bagdad aus.
The caliph Harun al-Rashid ruled from Baghdad.
to take someone's place
To want to take over someone else's power or position of leadership. The expression 'Kalif anstelle des Kalifen werden' (to take someone's place) is usually used humorously or critically.
Der Stellvertreter will offenbar Kalif anstelle des Kalifen werden und den Parteivorsitz selbst übernehmen.
The deputy apparently wants to take the leader's place and assume the party leadership himself.
| gender | masculine der |
|---|---|
| plural | die Kalifen |
| genitive | des Kalifen |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | der Kalif | die Kalifen |
| accusative | den Kalifen | die Kalifen |
| dative | dem Kalifen | den Kalifen |
| genitive | des Kalifen | der Kalifen |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
'Der Kalif' (caliph) is mainly used in historical, religious, and political-theological contexts. In modern texts, the word often appears in connection with Islamic history or historical rulers.
Im Geschichtsunterricht sprachen wir über den Kalifen von Córdoba.
In history class, we talked about the caliph of Córdoba.
Der Roman erzählt vom Leben eines jungen Kalifen.
The novel tells the story of a young caliph's life.
Common combinations are 'der Kalif von Bagdad' (the caliph of Baghdad), 'der Kalif von Córdoba' (the caliph of Córdoba), and 'unter dem Kalifen' (under the caliph). Here, 'von' (of) often introduces the territory ruled or the ruler's seat of power.
Unter dem Kalifen von Córdoba blühte die Wissenschaft auf.
Under the caliph of Córdoba, science flourished.
The expression 'Kalif anstelle des Kalifen werden' (to take someone's place; literally, to become caliph in place of the caliph) focuses on someone who wants to oust the current ruler and take over the leadership. The expression is often used ironically or critically.
Statt loyal zu bleiben, versuchte sie, Kalif anstelle des Kalifen zu werden.
Instead of remaining loyal, she tried to take the leader's place.
