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der Triumph
triumph
A great victory or outstanding success that is celebrated with great joy and pride.
example
Der Gewinn der Weltmeisterschaft war ein nationaler Triumph.
Winning the World Cup was a national triumph.
der Triumph
triumph
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The noun 'der Triumph' (triumph) belongs to a word family. The related verb is 'triumphieren' (to triumph/celebrate a triumph), and the adjective is 'triumphal' (triumphal; in the manner of a triumph).
EXAMPLE
Die Mannschaft triumphierte im Finale und feierte den Sieg die ganze Nacht.
The team triumphed in the final and celebrated the victory all night.
Typical collocations
Common verbs used with 'Triumph' are 'einen Triumph feiern' (to celebrate a triumph) or 'einen Triumph erringen' (to achieve/win a triumph). You can also say that something is 'ein Triumph für' (a triumph for) someone or something.
EXAMPLE
Für die kleine Firma war der Vertragsabschluss ein riesiger Triumph.
For the small company, closing the contract was a huge triumph.
Register and style
The word 'Triumph' is rather elevated in style and is used for very great, significant successes. Using it in everyday life for small successes can sound exaggerated or ironic.
EXAMPLE
Die Entdeckung des neuen Medikaments ist ein Triumph für die Wissenschaft.
The discovery of the new medicine is a triumph for science.
Context clue
You can recognize the historical meaning from context. When 'ancient Rome,' 'generals,' or 'Caesar' are mentioned, it almost always refers to the ceremonial procession.
EXAMPLE
Der siegreiche Feldherr feierte seinen Triumph mit einem großen Umzug durch die Stadt.
The victorious general celebrated his triumph with a grand procession through the city.
Compare with
Triumph vs Erfolg
success
'der Erfolg' and 'der Triumph' both describe a very positive result. 'Erfolg' is the normal, general word: a plan succeeds or a goal is achieved. 'Triumph' is stronger and more celebratory. It suggests a great victory or a special success that one is very proud of. 'Triumph' fits especially when joy, pride, or a clear victory is central. For everyday goals, 'Erfolg' is usually more natural.
Triumph
Der Sieg im Finale war für die junge Spielerin ein echter Triumph.
The victory in the final was a real triumph for the young player.
Erfolg
Frau Kaya hatte mit ihrem neuen Kurs großen Erfolg.
Ms. Kaya had great success with her new course.
In real life
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