German Conversation · Level 118
45 words
German word
Herrschaft
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈhɛɐ̯ʃaft/
Meaning
- feminine nounrule
Example
Die Herrschaft des Kaisers dauerte dreißig Jahre.
The emperor's rule lasted for thirty years.
More examples
Viele Menschen protestierten gegen die Herrschaft der Partei.
Many people protested against the party's rule.
Core concept
A throne stands at the center of a territory, surrounded by rules, officials, and people who carry out its decisions.
Common phrases
unter der Herrschaft von
under the rule of
die Herrschaft übernehmen
assume power
die Herrschaft ausüben
exercise rule
Similar words
Macht: The ability or authority to shape others' actions or decisions.
Regierung: The official organization responsible for managing a country or region.
Autorität: Influence earned through trust, status, or recognized standing.
Staat: An organized political community governed within a defined territory.
Definition in German
Herrschaft bezeichnet die autoritative Kontrolle über ein Gebiet oder eine Gemeinschaft, sichtbar in Regeln, Befehlen und deren Durchsetzung.
Word origin
The noun combines Herr with -schaft, a German suffix that denotes a state or social condition, and originally referred to the position or domain of a lord.
Usage tips
- Herrschaft often describes an established reign or governing system, whereas Macht can refer more broadly to the ability to influence or control.