Selbsternannte

Selbsternannte (plural: die Selbsternannten) is a German term used to describe individuals or groups who claim a particular status, title, or authority for themselves without external validation or formal recognition. The word is formed from selbst ('self') and ernannt, the past participle of ernennen ('to appoint'), and is best translated as 'self-proclaimed' or 'self-styled.' Grammatically, selbsternannt can function as an attributive adjective (selbsternannte Experten) or as a substantive phrase when plural (die Selbsternannten).

Usage and connotations: The term is generally evaluative and often carries a pejorative undertone, signaling skepticism about the legitimacy or official authority of those described. It is common in journalism, political commentary, and public discourse when describing individuals who claim leadership, expertise, or representation without formal appointment, election, or broad recognition. The discretion of neutral usage depends on context; in some cases it may be used descriptively rather than as a value judgment, but it frequently implies a critical stance.

Variants and equivalents: In English, closest equivalents include 'self-styled,' 'self-proclaimed,' or 'so-called.' The expression can pair with nouns such as 'Selbsternannte Präsidenten' or 'selbsternannte Experten.'

The term is primarily used in German-language media and discourse and should be employed with awareness of its rhetorical weight. See also related terms such as 'Selbsternennung' (self-appointment) and 'selbsternannt' (adjective).