crusade
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crusade
In a figurative sense, an energetic fight for or against an idea or cause, pursued with great commitment.
Die Aktivistin führte einen persönlichen Kreuzzug gegen Plastikmüll.
The activist led a personal crusade against plastic waste.
Crusade
One of the wars initiated by the pope and waged by European Christians in the Middle Ages, originally with the aim of conquering and securing the holy sites in the Middle East.
Der erste Kreuzzug begann im Jahr 1096 und führte zur Eroberung Jerusalems.
The First Crusade began in 1096 and led to the conquest of Jerusalem.
The word is made up of 'Kreuz' (cross) and 'Zug' (campaign/march). In the past, a 'Zug' could mean, among other things, a military campaign or movement. The historical meaning therefore refers to a 'campaign under the sign of the cross'.
Die Ritter bereiteten sich auf den langen Zug ins Heilige Land vor.
The knights prepared for the long march to the Holy Land.
You can tell from context whether the historical or figurative meaning is intended. If it is about the Middle Ages, religion, or Jerusalem, it is the historical meaning. If people are talking about politics, personal goals, or activism, it is the figurative one.
Im Geschichtsunterricht lernen wir über die Kreuzzüge des Mittelalters.
In history class, we learn about the Crusades of the Middle Ages.
In the figurative meaning, 'Kreuzzug' (crusade) is often used with the verb 'führen' (to lead/wage) and a preposition. You lead a crusade 'für' (for) a good cause or 'gegen' (against) a problem.
Die Bürgerinitiative führt einen Kreuzzug gegen den Bau der neuen Autobahn.
The citizens' initiative is waging a crusade against the construction of the new highway.
In a historical context, 'Kreuzzug' (Crusade) is often combined with ordinal numbers to name the different campaigns. For example, people speak of the 'Erster Kreuzzug' (First Crusade) or 'Dritter Kreuzzug' (Third Crusade).
Der Vierte Kreuzzug führte zur Plünderung von Konstantinopel.
The Fourth Crusade led to the sack of Constantinople.
campaign
A Kampagne and a Kreuzzug can both refer to committed action for or against a cause. “Kampagne” primarily describes a planned public initiative, while “Kreuzzug” expresses a particularly combative and missionary attitude. For factual, coordinated measures, “Kampagne” is generally more suitable; for a passionate fight, use “Kreuzzug”.
Die Organisation führt einen Kreuzzug gegen Lebensmittelverschwendung und greift verschwenderische Firmen scharf an.
The organization is waging a crusade against food waste and harshly criticizing wasteful companies.
Die Organisation startet eine Kampagne gegen Lebensmittelverschwendung mit Plakaten und Vorträgen.
The organization is launching a campaign against food waste with posters and talks.
