der Ritus
rite
A fixed, formal, and often ceremonial action or sequence of actions, especially in a religious or solemn context.
EXAMPLE
Die Taufe ist ein wichtiger Ritus im Christentum.
Baptism is an important rite in Christianity.
der Ritus
rite / ritual
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Meanings
der Ritus
ritual
A repeated action in everyday or social life that has become a habit and is almost ceremonial.
EXAMPLE
Sein morgendlicher Kaffee war für ihn ein unverzichtbarer Ritus, um den Tag zu beginnen.
His morning coffee was an essential ritual for him to start the day.
Usage tips
Context clue
The meaning of 'Ritus' (rite/ritual) becomes clear through the adjectives. Words like 'religiös' (religious), 'kirchlich' (church-related), or 'antik' (ancient) point to a ceremonial action. Adjectives like 'täglich' (daily), 'persönlich' (personal), or 'morgendlich' (morning) describe a fixed habit.
EXAMPLE
Die Krönung des Königs folgte einem jahrhundertealten Ritus.
The coronation of the king followed a centuries-old rite.
Typical verbs
When referring to a ceremonial rite, formal verbs such as 'vollziehen' (to perform/carry out), 'durchführen' (to carry out), or 'begehen' (to observe/celebrate) are often used.
EXAMPLE
Der Priester vollzog den Ritus der Segnung.
The priest performed the rite of blessing.
Figurative meaning
This meaning describes an action that has become so regular and important that it feels almost like a ceremony. It often involves personal or social habits.
EXAMPLE
Das Treffen mit seinen Freunden am Freitagabend war für ihn ein fester Ritus.
Meeting his friends on Friday evening was a fixed ritual for him.
Compare with
Ritus vs Brauch
custom
Brauch and Ritus can both refer to a traditional action repeated during a celebration. Brauch emphasizes a tradition passed down through society, while Ritus refers more specifically to the formal, symbolic performance or sequence. Use Brauch for the general tradition and Ritus for the ceremonial procedure.
Ritus
Der Priester vollzieht bei der Hochzeit einen festgelegten Ritus mit mehreren symbolischen Handlungen.
At the wedding, the priest performs a prescribed rite involving several symbolic actions.
Brauch
Es ist ein alter Brauch, bei der Hochzeit gemeinsam aus einem Glas zu trinken.
It is an old custom to drink together from one glass at the wedding.
In real life
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