The process of dividing something into sections, groups, or categories; classification or sorting.
example
Die Einteilung der Bewerber erfolgte nach ihren Qualifikationen.
The classification of the applicants was done according to their qualifications.
Usage tips
Word structure
'Einteilung' (classification/assignment) is a noun derived from the separable verb 'einteilen' (to divide up / to assign). It consists of the prefix 'ein-', the verb 'teilen' (to divide/share), and the ending '-ung', which often describes a process or its result.
EXAMPLE
Der Lehrer erklärte uns die Einteilung der Tiere in verschiedene Klassen.
The teacher explained to us the classification of animals into different classes.
Sentence structure and use
To name the categories or groups into which something is divided, you use the preposition 'in' with the accusative.
EXAMPLE
Die Einteilung der Teilnehmer in Anfänger und Fortgeschrittene war sinnvoll.
The division of the participants into beginners and advanced learners was sensible.
Context clue
The context shows the exact meaning. If the word refers to abstract things or objects, it is about organization or structure. If it refers to people, it is about assignment to duties or tasks.
EXAMPLE
Die Einteilung des Aufsatzes war sehr unklar.
The structure of the essay was very unclear.
Typical collocations
When talking about structure, people often speak of the 'logische' (logical), 'klare' (clear), or 'räumliche' (spatial) 'Einteilung' of something.
EXAMPLE
Eine gute räumliche Einteilung lässt eine kleine Wohnung größer wirken.
A good spatial layout makes a small apartment seem larger.
Typical collocations
In connection with staff, people speak of the 'Einteilung zum Dienst' (assignment to duty) or the 'Einteilung der Mitarbeiter' (assignment of employees) to specific shifts.
EXAMPLE
Wer macht die Einteilung für die Feiertage?
Who is making the schedule for the holidays?
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
Einteilung vs Aufbau
structure / assembly
'der Aufbau' and 'die Einteilung' can both have to do with organization or structure. 'Aufbau' means the overall structure or organization of something. 'Einteilung' emphasizes that something is organized into sections, groups, or categories. For example, people talk about the 'Einteilung' of a text into chapters or the 'Einteilung' of products into groups. The words can be confused because both can fit when talking about plans, texts, or learning material. If you mean the structure as a whole, 'Aufbau' is usually the better choice. If you mean the individual groups or sections, 'Einteilung' is more natural.
Einteilung
Für den Kurs braucht ihr eine klare Einteilung der Themen.
For the course, you need a clear organization of the topics.
Aufbau
Der Aufbau der Präsentation ist logisch und leicht zu verstehen.
The structure of the presentation is logical and easy to understand.