special status
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special status
A special, often privileged position or status that a person, group, or thing has in comparison with others. This position may be connected with special rights or duties.
Als einziges Kind genoss er bei seinen Großeltern eine Sonderstellung.
As the only child, he enjoyed a special status with his grandparents.
This word is a combination of 'Sonder-' (special) and 'die Stellung' (position, status). So it literally describes a special position that differs from the norm.
Aufgrund seiner Erfahrung hat er im Team eine Sonderstellung.
Because of his experience, he has a special status on the team.
Common verbs used with 'Sonderstellung' (special status) are 'einnehmen' (to occupy/hold), 'genießen' (to enjoy), and 'haben' (to have). You can also 'einräumen' (grant) someone a special status.
Der älteste Sohn nahm in der Familie traditionell eine Sonderstellung ein.
The eldest son traditionally held a special status in the family.
The meaning can be positive, neutral, or negative depending on the context. A special status can be a deserved privilege, a neutral legal status, or also an unfair advantage over others.
Manche Kollegen finden, dass sie eine ungerechtfertigte Sonderstellung hat.
Some colleagues think that she has an unjustified special status.
privilege
'Privileg' and 'Sonderstellung' are both connected with something special that does not apply to everyone. A 'Privileg' is a special advantage, a right, or even a pleasant opportunity. A 'Sonderstellung' describes more the special position or special status of a person, group, or thing compared with others. This position can bring privileges, but it does not always have to. The words can be confused because a special status is often connected with advantages. 'Privileg' names the specific advantage more, while 'Sonderstellung' names the special role or situation more.
In der Firma hat das Forschungsteam eine Sonderstellung, weil es direkt mit der Leitung arbeitet.
In the company, the research team has a special status because it works directly with management.
Fiona sieht es als Privileg, bei wichtigen Gesprächen direkt dabei zu sein.
Fiona sees it as a privilege to be directly involved in important discussions.