eminent
The German word for eminent is eminent.
The adjective eminent is used to describe a person who is distinguished or noteworthy.
Meaning: of a person: distinguished, noteworthy (adj)
Which one should you use?
While eminent is a direct translation, other formal options change the nuance. Use Hervorragend to mean outstanding or excellent, Bedeutend to mean significant or important, Angesehen when referring to someone or something esteemed or respected and Hochkarätig to connote high caliber or prestige.
Did you know?
- While eminent describes a person, the word hochkarätig is used for prestige and literally means 'of a high carat weight'. It treats a person's excellence as if they were a high-quality diamond.
- The word hervorragend means outstanding and literally describes someone who 'sticks out' or 'protrudes' from a group.
- In German, the word eminent is more commonly paired with abstract concepts like 'danger' or 'importance' than with people. While an English speaker might describe an 'eminent scientist', a German speaker is more likely to speak of an 'eminent danger' (eine eminente Gefahr).
Examples in context
- Er ist ein eminenter Wissenschaftler.He is an eminent scientist.
- Sie war eine eminent erfahrene Ärztin.She was an eminently experienced doctor.
- Wir sprachen mit einem eminenten Experten.We spoke with an eminent expert.
Example conversation
Lukas and Sarah are discussing a guest lecturer at their university.
- LukasWer hält morgen den Vortrag?Who is giving the lecture tomorrow?
- SarahEin eminenter Professor aus Berlin kommt.An eminent professor from Berlin is coming.
- LukasDas ist eine große Ehre für uns.That is a great honor for us.
- SarahJa, er ist wirklich sehr eminent.Yes, he is truly very eminent.
