01
der Rang
rank
A position or level within a hierarchy, for example in the military, at work, or in society.
example
Er wurde für seine Verdienste in einen höheren Rang befördert.
He was promoted to a higher rank for his services.
der Rang
rank
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Hierarchy and military
In this meaning, you often find 'Rang' (rank) in the context of the military, police, nobility, or hierarchies in companies. Typical verbs are 'einen Rang bekleiden' (to hold a rank) or 'im Rang aufsteigen' (to rise in rank).
EXAMPLE
Nach seiner Ausbildung erhielt er den Rang eines Leutnants.
After his training, he received the rank of lieutenant.
In the theater
In connection with theaters, operas, or concert halls, 'Rang' (balcony/tier) refers to a level with seats. An ordinal number is usually used, e.g. 'im ersten Rang' (in the first balcony).
EXAMPLE
Unsere Plätze sind im zweiten Rang, Reihe drei.
Our seats are in the second balcony, row three.
Fixed phrase with 'von'
To express high quality or importance, the fixed phrase 'von ... Rang' is used. Between 'von' and 'Rang', there is often an adjective such as 'international' or 'hohem'.
EXAMPLE
Das Museum besitzt eine Sammlung von Weltrang.
The museum has a world-class collection.
Dative construction
In the idiom 'jemandem den Rang ablaufen' (to outstrip someone), the person or thing being surpassed is always in the dative.
EXAMPLE
Die junge Sportlerin läuft der erfahrenen Meisterin langsam den Rang ab.
The young athlete is slowly outstripping the experienced champion.
Compare with
Rang vs Platz
place / space
'der Platz' and 'der Rang' can both mean a position in an order. 'Platz' is used especially for competitions, lists, or results, for example 'erster Platz' (first place) or 'dritter Platz' (third place). 'Rang' sounds a bit more formal and often means a level in an order or hierarchy, such as at work, in the military, or in an official list. The words can be confused because both express a position. In sports or in a race, 'Platz' usually sounds more natural. When it is about standing, status, or a fixed order, 'Rang' is more precise.
Rang
In der Firma hat Herr Schneider einen hohen Rang.
Mr. Schneider has a high rank in the company.
Platz
Beim Stadtlauf hat Lena den zweiten Platz erreicht.
Lena achieved second place in the city run.
In real life
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