German word

Machtkampf

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈmaxtˌkampf/

Meaning

  • masculine nounpower struggle

Example

Die Machtkämpfe in der Firma belasten alle.

The power struggles in the company are putting a strain on everyone.

Illustration for Machtkampf (power struggle)

More examples

In den Medien wurde der Machtkampf zwischen den Konzernen heftig diskutiert.

The power struggle between the corporations was heatedly discussed in the media.

Core concept

Rivals inside one group pull against each other to control the same position or source of influence.

Common phrases

  • Machtkampf zwischen Führungskräften

    power struggle between executives

  • Machtkampf um die Führung

    power struggle for leadership

  • Machtkampf in der Regierung

    power struggle within the government

Similar words

Streit: An argument or quarrel arising from disagreement or strong emotions.
Konkurrenz: Competition between people pursuing the same goal or position.
Intrige: A covert scheme designed to put a rival at a disadvantage.
Machtspiel: A tactic or maneuver used to gain power or influence.

Definition in German

Auseinandersetzung um Machtpositionen innerhalb einer Gruppe oder Institution.

Word origin

Machtkampf is a compound of Macht, meaning power or authority, and Kampf, meaning struggle or fight.

Usage tips

  • Machtkampf is masculine, with the forms der Machtkampf and die Machtkämpfe.

Other meanings

  • struggle for powernoun
  • struggle for influencenoun
  • struggle for controlnoun

Opposites

Related words

  • Machtergreifungseizure of powernoun
  • Machtmissbrauchabuse of powernoun
  • Machtpolitikpower politicsnoun

Word lists with this word