declaration of war
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declaration of war
The formal notification under international law from one state to another that the two are now in a state of war.
Die Kriegserklärung wurde dem Botschafter am frühen Morgen überreicht.
The declaration of war was handed to the ambassador early in the morning.
The word is composed of 'der Krieg' (war) and 'die Erklärung' (declaration/explanation). The 's' in between is a linking element. Literally, then, it is the declaration that a war is beginning.
Die Bevölkerung war schockiert über die plötzliche Kriegserklärung.
The population was shocked by the sudden declaration of war.
In the literal, political sense, 'Kriegserklärung' (declaration of war) is often used with verbs such as 'überreichen' (to hand over/present), 'abgeben' (to issue/submit), or 'erhalten' (to receive). The declaration is always directed 'an' (to) another state.
Der Diplomat musste die Kriegserklärung an die gegnerische Regierung überreichen.
The diplomat had to hand the declaration of war to the opposing government.
In the figurative sense, the formulation 'einer Kriegserklärung gleichkommen' (to amount to a declaration of war) is often used. This expresses that an action is perceived as extremely hostile.
Seine öffentliche Kritik an der Chefin kam einer Kriegserklärung gleich.
His public criticism of the boss amounted to a declaration of war.
challenge
'die Herausforderung' and 'die Kriegserklärung' can both mean the beginning of a conflict. A challenge is a direct invitation to compete with someone, for example in an argument or contest. A declaration of war sounds much stronger and more hostile. In a figurative sense, it means an action or statement that feels like the beginning of a serious fight. The words can be confused when someone takes a very clear stand against another person or group. 'Herausforderung' fits more with competition; 'Kriegserklärung' fits more with open, harsh conflict.
Die harte Kritik der Chefin wirkt für das Team wie eine Kriegserklärung.
The boss's harsh criticism feels like a declaration of war to the team.
Seine Worte klangen wie eine klare Herausforderung an den alten Meister.
His words sounded like a clear challenge to the old master.