deputy / representative
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deputy / acting
Acting in place of another person or speaking for them; as a substitute or representative.
Da der Chef krank ist, wird die stellvertretende Direktorin die Sitzung leiten.
Since the boss is sick, the deputy director will lead the meeting.
The word is made up of 'Stelle' (place/position) and 'vertreten' (to represent/substitute for). It literally means that someone takes another person's place and acts for them.
Er unterschrieb den Vertrag stellvertretend für seine Chefin.
He signed the contract on behalf of his boss.
In the meaning 'in a substitute capacity', 'stellvertretend' is often used as part of an official job title. It then stands directly before the title, for example 'der stellvertretende Geschäftsführer' (the deputy managing director).
Die stellvertretende Schulleiterin begrüßte die neuen Schüler.
The deputy principal welcomed the new students.
In the meaning 'as an example', 'stellvertretend' often appears at the beginning of a sentence, followed by the preposition 'für' (for). This construction is frequently used in speeches or expressions of thanks to highlight one person from a group.
Stellvertretend für das gesamte Team nehme ich diesen Preis entgegen.
On behalf of the entire team, I accept this award.
personal / in person
'persönlich' and 'stellvertretend' form a clear contrast when it comes to who does something. 'persönlich' then means: the person does it themselves and is not represented by someone else. 'stellvertretend' means: someone acts or speaks in place of another person. In official situations, at appointments, or with signatures, this difference is important. You can say: either someone comes 'persönlich' (in person), or someone comes 'stellvertretend' (as a representative) for them.
Herr Kaya nimmt stellvertretend für seine Kollegin an der Sitzung teil.
Mr. Kaya is attending the meeting on behalf of his colleague.
Sie muss den Vertrag persönlich im Büro unterschreiben.
She has to sign the contract in person at the office.