A political ideology that strives for social justice and equality within a democratic state and a market-oriented economic system.
example
Die Sozialdemokratie setzt sich traditionell für die Rechte von Arbeitnehmern ein.
Social democracy traditionally advocates for workers' rights.
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is composed of 'sozial' (social) and 'die Demokratie' (democracy). So it literally describes a form of democracy that places special emphasis on social goals such as justice and equality.
EXAMPLE
Die Verbindung von Freiheit und sozialer Sicherheit ist ein Kernanliegen der Sozialdemokratie.
The combination of freedom and social security is a core concern of social democracy.
Word family
The word family includes the adjective 'sozialdemokratisch' (social-democratic) as well as the terms for people 'der Sozialdemokrat' (male social democrat) and 'die Sozialdemokratin' (female social democrat).
EXAMPLE
Er ist überzeugter Sozialdemokrat und seit 20 Jahren Parteimitglied.
He is a convinced social democrat and has been a party member for 20 years.
Context clue
The context shows whether the ideology or a party is meant. If it is about elections, votes, or participation in government, a specific party is usually meant. In theoretical or historical discussions, it refers to the political idea.
EXAMPLE
Die Geschichte der Sozialdemokratie in Europa ist über 150 Jahre alt.
The history of social democracy in Europe is over 150 years old.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
Sozialdemokratie vs Sozialismus
socialism
'der Sozialismus' and 'die Sozialdemokratie' both have to do with social justice and equality. The most important difference lies in the political path and the economic system. 'Sozialismus' can mean an order in which the means of production are intended to be collective property. 'Sozialdemokratie' fits more with a democratic state with a market economy, in which the state sets social rules. In addition, 'Sozialdemokratie' can also mean a party or movement. Learners confuse the words because both begin with 'sozial' and name similar goals, but 'Sozialdemokratie' is usually meant as more moderate and democratic-parliamentary.
Sozialdemokratie
Die Sozialdemokratie setzt sich oft für höhere Löhne und bessere soziale Sicherheit ein.
Social democracy often advocates for higher wages and better social security.
Sozialismus
In dem Buch wird der Sozialismus als Alternative zum Kapitalismus beschrieben.
In the book, socialism is described as an alternative to capitalism.