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.
leadership circle
In a figurative sense, a small leading group of people in an organization or in politics that makes decisions.
Die wichtigen Entscheidungen werden oft in der politischen Kuppel getroffen, weit weg von der Basis.
Important decisions are often made in the political leadership circle, far away from the grassroots.
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.
cathedral / fair
Dom and Kuppel can both refer to a hemispherical vault over a space. Kuppel is the general architectural term, while Dom is used for this meaning mainly in technical language or for traditional reasons. In everyday speech, Kuppel is usually the more appropriate choice.
Die Kuppel über dem runden Saal wurde nach vielen Jahren sorgfältig restauriert.
The dome over the round hall was carefully restored after many years.
Der Dom über dem runden Saal wurde nach vielen Jahren sorgfältig restauriert.
The dome over the round hall was carefully restored after many years.
