harmony / unison
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in harmony with
To be in agreement or harmony with something. It means that something fits with something else or corresponds to its rules and principles.
Die neuen Maßnahmen stehen im Einklang mit den Zielen des Unternehmens.
The new measures are in harmony with the company's goals.
The word consists of 'ein' (one) and 'der Klang' (sound). The literal meaning 'ein Klang' (one sound) or 'unison' is used in music and metaphorically for harmony and agreement.
Die Sänger begannen die Hymne im Einklang.
The singers began the anthem in unison.
The difference between the meanings is easy to recognize from context. If it is about music, instruments, or voices, it refers to musical unison. If it is about laws, nature, values, or goals, it refers to the figurative meaning of 'Harmonie' (harmony).
Der Chor sang die Melodie im Einklang.
The choir sang the melody in unison.
In the meaning of 'Übereinstimmung' (agreement), 'Einklang' is almost always part of the fixed expression 'im Einklang mit etwas stehen/sein/handeln' (to be/act in harmony with something). The preposition 'mit' takes the dative.
Sein Handeln steht nicht im Einklang mit seinen Worten.
His actions are not in harmony with his words.
The expression 'im Einklang mit' (in harmony with) is often used to express harmony with abstract concepts, for example 'mit der Natur' (with nature), 'mit den Gesetzen' (with the laws), or 'mit den eigenen Werten' (with one's own values).
Viele Menschen suchen ein Leben im Einklang mit der Natur.
Many people seek a life in harmony with nature.
opposite / contrast
'der Gegensatz' and 'der Einklang' are clear opposites in this meaning. With a 'Gegensatz' (opposite / contrast), two things do not fit together or show a strong contrast. With 'Einklang', they fit together well and agree with each other. People especially often say 'im Gegensatz zu' (in contrast to) when emphasizing a difference, and 'im Einklang mit' (in harmony with) when something fits with rules, goals, or values.
Der neue Plan steht im Einklang mit den Regeln der Schule.
The new plan is in harmony with the school's rules.
Im Gegensatz zu ihrem Bruder ist Lena sehr ruhig.
In contrast to her brother, Lena is very quiet.