German Conversation · Level 172
30 words
German word
Geistliche
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈgaɪ̯stlɪçə/
Meaning
- noun (m./f.)clergyman
Example
Der Geistliche betete leise in der Kapelle.
The clergyman prayed quietly in the chapel.
More examples
Ich wollte nach dem Gottesdienst mit dem Geistlichen sprechen.
I wanted to speak to the clergyman after the service.
Core concept
A member of the clergy whose work joins formal rites with guidance for the faithful.
Common phrases
mit dem Geistlichen sprechen
speak to the clergyman
einen Geistlichen um Rat fragen
seek advice from a clergyman
eine Predigt vom Geistlichen hören
listen to a sermon by the clergyman
Similar words
Pfarrer: A Protestant parish minister responsible for worship and local church activities.
Priester: A Catholic or Orthodox priest who conducts liturgy and worship at the altar.
Seelsorger: A clergyperson who mainly provides personal counseling and spiritual care.
Kaplan: A chaplain who provides worship and spiritual support in an institution.
Definition in German
Eine Person, die in einer Kirche liturgische Aufgaben wahrnimmt oder die geistliche Betreuung von Gläubigen übernimmt.
Word origin
Geistliche comes from the German adjective geistlich through nominalization, so its form retains the adjective's inflection while referring to a religious person.
Usage tips
- The form Geistliche can mean a female cleric in the singular or clergy members in the plural, depending on the article and context.