01
sich einig sein
to agree
To have the same opinion or view as another person or group and be in agreement.
example
In diesem Punkt sind wir uns alle einig.
We all agree on this point.
einig
agreed / united
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Reflexive use
The word 'einig' (agreed/united) is almost always used reflexively with 'sich': 'sich einig sein' (to agree/be in agreement) or 'sich einig werden' (to reach agreement). The reflexive pronoun changes to match the subject.
EXAMPLE
Wir sind uns einig, dass wir etwas ändern müssen.
We agree that we need to change something.
State or process
The combination with 'sein' (to be) describes a state of agreement, while the combination with 'werden' (to become) describes the process of reaching agreement, which often happens after a discussion.
EXAMPLE
Die Geschwister sind sich einig, wie sie das Erbe aufteilen.
The siblings agree on how to divide the inheritance.
Preposition 'über'
When you name the subject of the agreement, you use the preposition 'über' followed by the accusative.
EXAMPLE
Die Experten sind sich über die Ursachen des Problems nicht einig.
The experts do not agree on the causes of the problem.
Word family
'Einig' (agreed/united) is derived from the number 'eins' (one). It describes the idea that several people come to 'one' opinion. Related words are 'die Einigkeit' (the state of being in agreement/unity) and 'vereinigen' (to unite).
EXAMPLE
Einigkeit macht stark.
Unity makes strength.
Rare use
Use as an adjective before a noun (e.g., 'ein einiges Volk' — a united people) is rare and often sounds formal or literary. In everyday language, the reflexive use dominates.
EXAMPLE
Die Jury trat als einiges Gremium auf.
The jury appeared as a united body.
Compare with
einig vs eins
one
'eins' and 'einig' can both express that several people have the same opinion. The important difference is the form: 'einig' is the normal adjective in the expression 'sich einig sein' (to agree). 'Eins' occurs here only in the fixed expression 'sich eins sein' (to be agreed). This expression sounds somewhat more elevated or less everyday. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with agreement. In everyday language, 'Wir sind uns einig' (we agree) is usually more natural than 'Wir sind uns eins'.
einig
Mein Bruder und ich sind uns einig: Am Wochenende räumen wir die Wohnung auf.
My brother and I agree: we will clean up the apartment this weekend.
eins
Nach dem Gespräch sind wir uns eins, dass der Plan geändert werden muss.
After the conversation, we are agreed that the plan needs to be changed.
In real life
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