01
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
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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 For a modern soldier, the word is unusual and sounds more poetic or outdated.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' and 'Krieger' can both mean a person who fights in a war or battle. 'Soldat' sounds modern and official: the person belongs to an army or to the armed forces. 'Krieger' often sounds more historical, older, or more figurative. It is used, for example, for fighters in earlier societies or in stories. In a figurative sense, both can stand for a very determined person, but 'Krieger' sounds stronger and more dramatic. The words are easy to confuse because both have to do with fighting. In modern military contexts, 'Soldat' is usually more natural.
Krieger
Im Museum sahen die Kinder ein altes Schwert eines Kriegers.
At the museum, the children saw an old sword that belonged to a warrior.
Soldat
Der Soldat trägt seine Ausrüstung zum Fahrzeug.
The soldier carries his equipment to the vehicle.
In real life
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