The state structure has always been very confusing. Each element of the complex hierarchy is responsible for its own sphere, and some of its nodes are engaged in general coordination. It is not surprising that numerous terms appeared, one way or another pointing to members of the government apparatus. One of the most universal is the "dignitary", who does not depend on the system or ideology. The definition is very capacious, sonorous, but at the same time unambiguous and not allowing for ambiguous interpretation. Although some people manage to use it in an ironic way.
Turkic roots
Experts have no doubts about the etymology of the word. The concept of “san”, which was borrowed directly from Turkish, is called the original. Foreign language san breaks down into meanings:
- title, title;
- respect;
- honor.
There are related definitions, thanks to which a "dignitary" is a person gifted with fame, fame among ordinary citizens. Translated into modern Russian, we are talking about a media personality who plays an important role in the life of the state.
High standing
What does the speaker mean?Today, the word "dignitary" is considered obsolete, it is almost impossible to hear it. At the same time, it caught tsarist, imperial times and acquired a clear interpretation:
- a person close to the ruler;
- influencer;
- top official.
Many associate the term exclusively with bureaucratic activities, however, the difference from an ordinary employee is significant. A simple clerk does not affect the life of the country, does not pass laws, it is easy to remove him from his post and replace him with another. Even an inferior dignitary is of a completely different level. This is a huge personality. And even if she does not occupy any official post, performs a decorative function at court, her words and thoughts regularly push the monarch towards specific decisions.
Against this background, an allegorical meaning appeared when approaching the "noble". With a disapproving or mocking intonation, this could be called some arrogant person, whose pride does not correspond in any way to the work done, the achievements achieved, or the authority in the team.
Daily communication
Do contemporaries need to remember all this? The dignitaries have gone with the monarchies. Carriers of this status can only be found in the United Kingdom and Thailand. However, the townsfolk sometimes turn to the lexicon of their ancestors and jokingly designate their negative, partly mocking attitude towards a high-ranking official with a colorful characteristic. A great option if you don't want to slide into banal insults!
