dome / leadership circle
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dome
A hemispherical or bell-shaped roof vault over a round or polygonal space, typical of churches, mosques, or prestigious buildings.
Die gläserne Kuppel des Reichstagsgebäudes in Berlin ist ein Wahrzeichen der Stadt.
The glass dome of the Reichstag building in Berlin is a landmark of the city.
To distinguish the two meanings, pay attention to the context. If it is about architecture, buildings, or art, it means the roof vault. If it is about politics, power, or organizations, it means the leadership group.
Die Kuppel der Moschee ist mit Mosaiken verziert.
The dome of the mosque is decorated with mosaics.
In the architectural sense, 'Kuppel' (dome) is often combined with adjectives such as 'gläsern' (glass), 'golden' (golden), or 'gewaltig' (huge). It also frequently appears in the genitive to show belonging, e.g. 'die Kuppel des Doms' (the dome of the cathedral).
Die gläserne Kuppel des Gebäudes bietet einen Panoramablick über die Stadt.
The glass dome of the building offers a panoramic view over the city.
The figurative meaning for a leadership group is used mainly in journalistic or political texts. It can have a slightly critical or detached undertone.
Die Basis der Organisation fühlte sich von der Kuppel nicht vertreten.
The grassroots of the organization felt they were not represented by the leadership circle.
tip / top / lace
'die Spitze' and 'die Kuppel' can both figuratively mean a leading group. 'die Spitze' is the normal word for the highest position or leadership, for example in a company, party, or ranking. 'die Kuppel' more often means a small circle of powerful people in an organization or in politics, and it often sounds more critical. The words can be confused because both point to people at the very top. In neutral situations, 'Spitze' is usually more natural; 'Kuppel' fits better when you want to emphasize power within a tight circle.
Die Parteikuppel traf die Entscheidung ohne lange Diskussion.
The party leadership circle made the decision without much discussion.
An der Spitze des Unternehmens steht seit Januar eine neue Chefin.
A new female boss has been at the top of the company since January.