dignitary
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dignitary
A person who holds a high public, state, or church office and represents it at official occasions. The term emphasizes the honor and prestige associated with the office.
Zum Staatsbankett waren zahlreiche internationale Würdenträger geladen.
Numerous international dignitaries were invited to the state banquet.
The word is made up of 'die Würde' (dignity) and 'der Träger' (bearer/carrier). A 'Würdenträger' (dignitary) is therefore literally a person who 'carries' and represents the dignity of an office.
Der Bürgermeister begrüßte als lokaler Würdenträger die ausländischen Gäste.
As a local dignitary, the mayor welcomed the foreign guests.
'Würdenträger' (dignitary) is often combined with adjectives that specify the person's field. Common examples are 'kirchliche Würdenträger' (church dignitaries), 'politische Würdenträger' (political dignitaries), or 'hohe Würdenträger' (high-ranking dignitaries).
Bei der Zeremonie waren hohe militärische und politische Würdenträger anwesend.
High-ranking military and political dignitaries were present at the ceremony.
This word belongs to a very formal, official register. It is used mainly in reporting on state, diplomatic, or church events.
Die Presse wartete auf die Ankunft der internationalen Würdenträger.
The press waited for the arrival of the international dignitaries.
incumbent
Both words can refer to a person in a high official position. Amtsinhaber mainly says who currently holds the specific office; Würdenträger additionally emphasizes high status, honor, and public representation. Use Amtsinhaber for who occupies the office and Würdenträger for a ceremonial or representative appearance.
Bei der Feier sprach ein kirchlicher Würdenträger zu den Gästen.
A church dignitary addressed the guests at the celebration.
Der neue Amtsinhaber übernahm gestern offiziell seine Position.
The new incumbent officially took up the position yesterday.
