solo action / going alone
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solo action
An action that a person carries out without consulting or getting the approval of others who actually should have been involved. The term often has a negative connotation.
Der Minister wurde für seinen Alleingang bei den Verhandlungen stark kritisiert.
The minister was heavily criticized for his solo action during the negotiations.
The word is made up of 'allein' (alone) and 'der Gang' (walk, course, or action). The literal meaning 'a walk or course of action that one does alone' helps you understand the figurative meaning 'an action that one carries out alone.'
Sein politischer Alleingang wurde von allen Seiten kritisiert.
His political solo action was criticized from all sides.
The figurative meaning, acting without consultation, is far more common than the literal one. The term usually has a negative connotation because it implies that cooperation would have been necessary.
Die Chefin hat die Entscheidung im Alleingang getroffen, ohne das Team zu fragen.
The boss made the decision single-handedly, without asking the team.
'Alleingang' (solo action) is very often used with the verb 'machen' (to make/do): 'einen Alleingang machen' (to go it alone / to act alone). It is often found in contexts such as politics, business, or teamwork.
Er ist bekannt dafür, dass er gerne Alleingänge macht.
He is known for liking to go it alone.
collaboration
'Zusammenarbeit' and 'Alleingang' are clear opposites here. With 'Zusammenarbeit', several people or groups work together toward a goal and coordinate with one another. An 'Alleingang' means that someone decides or does something alone, even though others should actually have been involved. This often sounds critical because there is no consultation. In teams, families, or organizations, 'Zusammenarbeit' is usually positive, while 'Alleingang' often describes problems or irritation.
Julias Alleingang bei der Planung hat in der Familie für Streit gesorgt.
Julia's solo approach to the planning caused arguments in the family.
Nach dem Gespräch klappt die Zusammenarbeit mit den Nachbarn viel besser.
After the conversation, collaboration with the neighbors is working much better.