soviet
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soviet
In the former Soviet Union and other socialist states, a council of workers, peasants, and soldiers that functioned as an organ of state power.
Der Oberste Sowjet war das höchste gesetzgebende Organ der UdSSR.
The Supreme Soviet was the highest legislative body of the USSR.
The word 'Sowjet' (soviet) is the basis for other well-known terms such as 'Sowjetunion' (Soviet Union, literally the union of councils) and the adjective 'sowjetisch' (Soviet). The word itself comes from Russian and means 'Rat' (council).
Die sowjetische Geschichte ist ein komplexes Thema.
Soviet history is a complex topic.
In the meaning 'Rat' (council), the word is used today almost exclusively in the historical context of the Soviet Union. It is often part of proper names of political institutions.
Der Dorfsowjet war für die lokale Verwaltung zuständig.
The village soviet was responsible for local administration.
As a term for a person, 'der Sowjet' (the Soviet) is outdated and is often perceived as derogatory or clichéd. This usage is usually found in the plural ('die Sowjets' — the Soviets) in old films or books from the Cold War era.
Im Spionageroman wurde der Held von den Sowjets verfolgt.
In the spy novel, the hero was pursued by the Soviets.
advice / council
'der Rat' and 'der Sowjet' can both mean a group that advises or makes political decisions. 'der Rat' is the normal German word for a council or body, for example in a city or organization. 'der Sowjet' is much more specific: historically, it refers to a council in the former Soviet Union or in socialist states. The words can be confused because 'Sowjet' was originally also a kind of council. In modern German, however, 'Sowjet' is used only in historical or political contexts; otherwise, 'Rat' is usually the right choice.
Im Geschichtsunterricht sprechen wir über einen Sowjet von Arbeitern und Soldaten.
In history class, we are talking about a soviet of workers and soldiers.
Der Rat der Stadt entscheidet nächste Woche über den neuen Busplan.
The city council will decide on the new bus schedule next week.