der Schützling
protégé
A person who is protected, promoted, and supported by someone else (a mentor or patron); a protégé.
EXAMPLE
Der junge Künstler war der Schützling eines berühmten Malers.
The young artist was the protégé of a famous painter.
der Schützling
protégé
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
'Schützling' (protégé) is derived from the verb 'schützen' (to protect). The ending '-ling' here refers to a person who is the object of the action — that is, someone who is protected.
EXAMPLE
Der Mentor kümmert sich intensiv um seinen neuen Schützling.
The mentor takes intensive care of his new protégé.
Typical collocations
The word describes a relationship. Therefore, it is often used with a genitive construction or the preposition 'von' (of / by) to name the protector or sponsor.
EXAMPLE
Sie war der Schützling eines einflussreichen Politikers.
She was the protégé of an influential politician.
Typical context
The term is often used in the context of mentoring in art, science, sports, or professional life. It describes a relationship in which an experienced person supports a younger, less experienced person.
EXAMPLE
Als Schützling des Professors erhielt sie Zugang zu wichtigen Forschungen.
As the professor's protégé, she gained access to important research.
In real life
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