field of tension
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field of tension
A situation shaped by opposing forces, interests, or opinions, which therefore carries potential for conflict.
Der Politiker bewegt sich im Spannungsfeld zwischen wirtschaftlichen Interessen und ökologischen Notwendigkeiten.
The politician operates in the field of tension between economic interests and ecological necessities.
The word is made up of 'Spannung' (tension/voltage) and 'Feld' (field). So it literally describes a field in which tension exists—this applies both to physical forces and to social or political conflicts.
Die Diskussion bewegte sich in einem permanenten Spannungsfeld.
The discussion moved within a constant field of tension.
In the figurative meaning, the word is almost always used with the preposition 'zwischen' (between) to name the opposing poles. The typical structure is: 'im Spannungsfeld zwischen A und B' (in the field of tension between A and B).
Die Firma agiert im Spannungsfeld zwischen Innovation und Tradition.
The company operates in the field of tension between innovation and tradition.
You can recognize the physical meaning from signal words such as 'elektrisch' (electric), 'magnetisch' (magnetic), or 'Gravitation' (gravitation). If such terms are missing, the figurative meaning of a conflict is almost always intended.
Im elektrischen Spannungsfeld werden die Elektronen beschleunigt.
In the electric field of force, the electrons are accelerated.
The figurative meaning of 'Spannungsfeld' (field of tension) belongs to an elevated, rather intellectual style of language. It is often found in journalistic, academic, or political texts.
Die moderne Kunst entsteht oft im Spannungsfeld von Ästhetik und Provokation.
Modern art often emerges in the field of tension between aesthetics and provocation.
opposite / contrast
'der Gegensatz' and 'das Spannungsfeld' both have to do with different or opposing sides. 'Der Gegensatz' names the difference itself: two things do not fit together or stand in opposition to each other. 'Das Spannungsfeld' describes more of an overall situation in which several interests, opinions, or forces act at the same time and create tension as a result. The words can be confused because a 'Spannungsfeld' often contains contrasts. If you only mean the contrast between two things, 'Gegensatz' is more precise. If you are describing the difficult situation between several sides, 'Spannungsfeld' fits better.
Viele Eltern leben im Spannungsfeld zwischen Arbeit, Familie und eigener Freizeit.
Many parents live in the field of tension between work, family, and their own free time.
Der Gegensatz zwischen Theorie und Praxis wurde im Praktikum schnell deutlich.
The contrast between theory and practice quickly became clear during the internship.