aga khan iii
Very Low (Proper Noun)Formal, Historical, Religious
Definition
Meaning
A hereditary title and leadership role within the Nizari Ismaili community of Shia Islam.
Specifically refers to Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah, Aga Khan III (1877–1957), the 48th Imam of the Nizari Ismailis, who was also a prominent British Indian statesman, co-founder of the All-India Muslim League, and served as President of the League of Nations.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Always capitalized. Functions exclusively as a proper noun referring to a specific historical-religious figure and title. It is not used generically.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is identical, as it is a proper noun. However, historical texts from the British Raj period may refer to him more frequently in the context of Indian politics.
Connotations
In both variants, connotes religious authority, historical significance, diplomacy, and Muslim leadership in the late colonial period.
Frequency
Extremely rare in general discourse; appears primarily in historical, religious studies, or South Asian political contexts.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] discusses Aga Khan III.[Subject] was succeeded by Aga Khan III.[Subject] examines the legacy of Aga Khan III.Vocabulary
Synonyms
Neutral
Weak
Usage
Context Usage
Academic
Frequent in historical, religious studies, and South Asian political science texts. Example: 'Aga Khan III's presidency of the League of Nations marked a significant moment for global Muslim representation.'
Everyday
Virtually never used in casual conversation.
Technical
Used in Ismaili religious doctrine and historiography to denote a specific lineage holder.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- This is a picture of Aga Khan III.
- Aga Khan III was an important Muslim leader in the 20th century.
- As a reformist leader, Aga Khan III emphasized education and women's rights within his community.
- Aga Khan III's diplomatic efforts at the League of Nations were instrumental in advocating for the interests of the Muslim world on the global stage.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Remember the three III's: Imam, India, International (his roles as Imam, Indian leader, and international statesman at the League of Nations).
Conceptual Metaphor
A BRIDGE BETWEEN WORLDS (connecting East and West, religion and secular politics).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not translate 'Aga' or 'Khan'. It is a fixed title, like 'Царь'. It remains 'Ага-хан III'.
- Avoid confusing with the contemporary 'Aga Khan IV', the current Imam.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'Aga Khan' without the numeral when referring specifically to the third holder.
- Misspelling as 'Aga Kahn' or 'Aga Kan'.
- Using it as a common noun (e.g., 'an aga khan').
Practice
Quiz
Aga Khan III is most accurately described as:
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
He was Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah, the 48th hereditary Imam of the Nizari Ismaili Muslims, serving from 1885 to 1957. He was also a key political figure in British India and President of the League of Nations.
It is a hereditary title. 'Aga Khan' means 'chief commander' or 'lord ruler'. The numeral (III, IV) specifies which holder of the title is being referenced.
He was a founding member and first president of the All-India Muslim League, which later championed the creation of Pakistan. He served as a representative of India to the League of Nations.
He was the grandfather of the current Imam, Prince Shah Karim Al Hussaini, who is known as Aga Khan IV.