heir to the throne
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heir to the throne
The person who is next to inherit a monarch's position after the monarch's death or abdication. Usually, this is the ruler's eldest child.
Der Prinz wird als offizieller Thronfolger auf seine zukünftigen Aufgaben vorbereitet.
The prince is being prepared for his future duties as the official heir to the throne.
The word is made up of 'Thron' (throne) and 'Folger' (follower/successor). A 'Folger' is someone who follows after someone else, from the verb 'folgen' (to follow). A 'Thronfolger' is therefore literally the person who follows on the throne.
Als Thronfolger musste der junge Prinz viele Sprachen lernen.
As heir to the throne, the young prince had to learn many languages.
You can tell from context whether the literal or figurative meaning is intended. Words like 'Königreich' (kingdom) or 'Prinz' (prince) point to a monarchy. Words like 'Firma' (company), 'Partei' (party), or 'Chef' (boss) point to succession in an organization.
Der älteste Sohn des Königs ist der Thronfolger.
The king's eldest son is the heir to the throne.
In the figurative sense, 'Thronfolger' (successor) is often used ironically or metaphorically for the designated successor in a powerful position in business or politics.
In den Medien wird bereits über den möglichen Thronfolger des alternden Firmengründers spekuliert.
The media are already speculating about the possible successor to the aging company founder.
successor
'Nachfolger' and 'Thronfolger' both refer to a person who later takes over an important position. 'Nachfolger' is the general word and fits many areas, for example a company, an association, or an office. 'Thronfolger' is much more specific: it actually refers to the person who will one day become king or queen. Figuratively, it can also be used for someone who is intended to be the next leader. If it is not about a throne or a very important top position, 'Nachfolger' sounds more natural.
Der junge Prinz gilt seit seiner Geburt als Thronfolger.
The young prince has been considered the heir to the throne since his birth.
Karim wird im Sommer der Nachfolger des Trainers.
Karim will become the coach's successor in the summer.