reign / term
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reign
The period of time during which a monarch, government, or other ruler is in power.
Während der Regierungszeit von Königin Victoria erlebte Großbritannien eine industrielle Blütezeit.
During the reign of Queen Victoria, Great Britain experienced an industrial boom.
This word is made up of 'die Regierung' (the government), the linking -s, and 'die Zeit' (time). So it literally means the time during which someone rules.
Die Regierungszeit des Kaisers war von vielen Kriegen geprägt.
The emperor's reign was marked by many wars.
'Regierungszeit' is very often used with the genitive or the preposition 'von' to name the ruler. For example, 'die Regierungszeit des Königs' (the king's reign) or 'die Regierungszeit von Königin Elisabeth' (the reign of Queen Elizabeth).
Die Kunst blühte in der Regierungszeit Ludwigs XIV. auf.
Art flourished during the reign of Louis XIV.
Common phrases are 'während der Regierungszeit' (during the reign), 'am Anfang/Ende der Regierungszeit' (at the beginning/end of the reign), as well as combinations with adjectives like 'lang' (long) or 'kurz' (short).
Am Ende seiner Regierungszeit war der König beim Volk sehr unbeliebt.
At the end of his reign, the king was very unpopular with the people.
term of office
'die Amtszeit' and 'die Regierungszeit' both describe a period during which someone has power or an official function. 'Amtszeit' is more general and means the fixed duration of an office, for example for a mayor or a president. 'Regierungszeit' is used when someone or a government actually governs, that is, exercises political power. The word fits especially well with governments, kings, queens, or rulers. The words can be confused when talking about political figures. If the period of an office is what matters, 'Amtszeit' fits. If it is about the time of rule or government, 'Regierungszeit' is more precise.
Im Geschichtskurs sprechen wir über die Regierungszeit des alten Königs.
In history class, we are talking about the reign of the old king.
In ihrer Amtszeit hat die Bürgermeisterin drei neue Schulen eröffnet.
During her term of office, the mayor opened three new schools.