representative / substitute
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representative
A person who acts on behalf of another person, a group, or a company, for example in sales or in legal matters.
Ein Vertreter der Versicherung hat uns die neuen Tarife erklärt.
A representative from the insurance company explained the new rates to us.
substitute
A person who temporarily replaces someone in their position or function.
Während mein Kollege im Urlaub ist, bin ich sein Vertreter.
While my colleague is on vacation, I am his substitute.
representative
A typical specimen or example of a particular genus, species, or group.
Der Löwe ist ein bekannter Vertreter der Katzenfamilie.
The lion is a well-known representative of the cat family.
'Der Vertreter' (the representative/substitute) is derived directly from the verb 'vertreten' (to represent). A 'Vertreter' is therefore a person who represents another person or a company.
Er vertritt seine Firma auf der internationalen Konferenz.
He represents his company at the international conference.
To express who or what is being represented, you usually use the preposition 'von' (of/from) followed by the dative. Alternatively, the genitive is also used.
Ein Vertreter von der Telefongesellschaft hat bei uns geklingelt.
A representative from the telephone company rang our doorbell.
In the sense of a sales representative, 'Vertreter' (representative) is often combined into new words that describe the profession more precisely, e.g. 'Versicherungsvertreter' (insurance representative) or 'Handelsvertreter' (sales representative).
Mein Onkel war 30 Jahre lang als Staubsaugervertreter tätig.
My uncle worked as a vacuum cleaner salesman for 30 years.
The meaning 'Exemplar' (specimen/example) is used almost exclusively in a scientific or classificatory context, e.g. in biology or art history. It often appears with adjectives such as 'typisch' (typical), 'bekannt' (well-known), or 'seltener' (rarer).
Der Eisbär ist ein bekannter Vertreter der arktischen Fauna.
The polar bear is a well-known representative of Arctic fauna.
ambassador
A Vertreter acts on behalf of a person, group, or company in a factual, businesslike role. A Botschafter can also represent a brand or idea, but is especially meant to promote it publicly and make it known. Botschafter is therefore a better fit for a promotional figure who embodies a brand or idea.
Ein Vertreter der Firma erklärt den Kunden die neuen Vertragsbedingungen.
A company representative explains the new contract terms to the customers.
Ein bekannter Sportler wirbt als Botschafter der Firma für ihre neue Marke.
A well-known athlete promotes the company's new brand as its ambassador.
