sheikh
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sheikh
A traditional Arabic title for the leader of a family, tribe, or village. The title is also used as an honorific for an Islamic scholar or an older, wise man.
Der Scheich wurde von den Stammesmitgliedern um Rat in einer wichtigen Angelegenheit gebeten.
The sheikh was asked by the members of the tribe for advice on an important matter.
rich man
A colloquial and often stereotypical term for a very rich man, especially from an Arab oil-producing country.
Mit seiner goldenen Uhr und dem teuren Sportwagen führte er sich auf wie ein Scheich.
With his gold watch and expensive sports car, he acted like a sheikh.
The meaning depends heavily on the context. In serious, political, or cultural reports about the Arab world, it refers to a leader or scholar. In colloquial stories about wealth and luxury, it refers to the stereotypical figure of a rich man.
Der Scheich vermittelte im Konflikt zwischen den beiden Familien.
The sheikh mediated in the conflict between the two families.
The meaning 'reicher Mann' (rich man) is colloquial and often stereotypical. It can sound ironic or slightly derogatory because it reduces a person to their wealth.
Für eine Nacht in diesem Hotel muss man wohl ein Scheich sein.
For one night in this hotel, you probably have to be a sheikh.
A very common expression is 'sich aufführen wie ein Scheich' (to act like a sheikh) or 'leben wie ein Scheich' (to live like a sheikh). This describes an extremely luxurious and wasteful lifestyle.
Im Urlaub hat er sich aufgeführt wie ein Scheich und jeden Abend alle eingeladen.
On vacation, he acted like a sheikh and invited everyone out every evening.
emir
Scheich is a traditional title for a local or family leader and can also be an honorific. Emir, by contrast, refers to a monarchical ruler or high-ranking noble. Emir is therefore appropriate for a specific monarchical position, while Scheich is appropriate for a traditional leadership role or an honorific title.
Als Scheich führt er den Stamm und vertritt dessen Familien.
As a sheikh, he leads the tribe and represents its families.
Als Emir regiert er das kleine Land und vertritt dessen Monarchie.
As an emir, he rules the small country and represents its monarchy.
