der Major
major
A military rank for officers, generally positioned above captain and below lieutenant colonel.
EXAMPLE
Der Major gab seiner Kompanie den Befehl zum Antreten.
The major gave his company the order to fall in.
der Major
major
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Meanings
Usage tips
False friend
'Der Major' in German refers exclusively to a military rank. It is not used like the English word 'major' as an adjective meaning 'important' or for a university major.
EXAMPLE
Der Major inspizierte die Truppen.
The major inspected the troops.
Formal address
When addressing a person with this rank directly and formally, the correct form of address is 'Herr Major' (Major).
EXAMPLE
Herr Major, die Soldaten sind bereit.
Major, the soldiers are ready.
Part of military ranks
The word 'Major' (major) is also a component of higher ranks, for example 'Generalmajor' (major general). This shows its position in the military hierarchy.
EXAMPLE
Er wurde zum Generalmajor befördert.
He was promoted to major general.
In real life
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