student asking question

What's the difference between "king" and "emperor"?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

An "emperor" is a male leader who has sovereign rule over many nations (his empire). He is considered the most powerful person of his empire (sometimes even considered a god) and makes all the decisions, laws, regulations, etc. of his empire. Ex: Augustus was one of Rome's greatest emperors. Ex: Genghis Khan was an emperor of the Mongol Empire. A "king" is a male leader of one nation or country (his kingdom). He may be considered the most powerful in his kingdom, but the king may have to answer or pay tribute to someone of higher status. His reign is usually considered a gift or a blessing by a higher power and is considered more of a political title. A king's power is not as ultimate as an emperor's is. Ex: King George VI was the former king of the United Kingdom. Ex: King Tut's remains are on display in the Valley of the Kings.

Popular Q&As

04/20

Complete the expression with a quiz!