der Krieger
warrior
A person who fights in a war or battle, especially in historical or premodern societies.
EXAMPLE
Die Samurai waren die Krieger des feudalen Japans.
The samurai were the warriors of feudal Japan.
der Krieger
warrior
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Meanings
der Krieger
warrior
In a figurative sense, a person who works passionately and determinedly for a cause or idea, or against a problem.
EXAMPLE
Als Anwältin ist sie eine unermüdliche Kriegerin für die Gerechtigkeit.
As a lawyer, she is a tireless warrior for justice.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word 'Krieger' (warrior) derives directly from 'der Krieg' (war). The ending '-er' here refers to a person who performs a certain activity—in this case, someone who wages war.
EXAMPLE
In der Sage kämpfte ein mutiger Krieger gegen den Drachen.
In the legend, a brave warrior fought against the dragon.
Register and style
The term 'Krieger' (warrior) is used today mostly for fighters in historical, fantasy, or tribal societies. For a modern soldier, the word is unusual and sounds more poetic or outdated.
EXAMPLE
Die Ausstellung zeigte die Rüstungen antiker griechischer Krieger.
The exhibition showed the armor of ancient Greek warriors.
Context clue
The figurative meaning can often be recognized by its combination with the prepositions 'für' (for) or 'gegen' (against). The person is then not fighting in a war, but advocating for an idea or fighting against a problem.
EXAMPLE
Er ist ein wahrer Krieger für den Umweltschutz.
He is a true warrior for environmental protection.
Compare with
Krieger vs Soldat
soldier
Soldat usually refers to a trained member of a country's armed forces. Krieger also refers to someone in a war or battle, but is used especially for historical or premodern societies. Soldat is therefore usually appropriate for a modern national army, while Krieger is more suitable in a historical context.
Krieger
Der Krieger diente damals seinem Stammesführer.
The warrior served his tribal leader back then.
Soldat
Der Soldat dient heute in der staatlichen Armee.
The soldier is serving in the national army today.
In real life
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