To have different opinions; to be unable to reach an agreement. The word is used almost exclusively in this predicative construction.
example
Die Geschwister waren sich uneins darüber, wohin sie in den Urlaub fahren sollten.
The siblings were at odds over where they should go on vacation.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word consists of the prefix 'un-' (not) and 'eins' (one). In this context, 'eins sein' means something like 'to be in agreement' or 'to be of one mind'. 'Uneins sein' (to be at odds) therefore means not to be of the same opinion.
EXAMPLE
Die Experten sind sich über die Ursache des Problems noch uneins.
The experts are still at odds over the cause of the problem.
Fixed construction
'Uneins' is almost always used in the fixed expression 'sich (Dative) uneins sein' (to be at odds with one another). The subject is plural or refers to a group. The topic about which people disagree is introduced with 'über' + accusative.
EXAMPLE
Die Politiker waren sich über den neuen Gesetzesentwurf uneins.
The politicians were at odds over the new draft law.
Common mistake
'Uneins' can only be used predicatively, that is, after a verb such as 'sein' (to be). It never stands directly before a noun as an adjective. You cannot say *'eine uneinse Gruppe'.
EXAMPLE
Die Jury war sich bei der Entscheidung völlig uneins.
The jury was completely at odds over the decision.
Compare with
antonym · confusable
uneins vs einig
agreed / united
'einig' and 'uneins' are opposites. When people are 'einig', they agree or find a shared solution. When they are 'uneins', they have different opinions and have not yet reached agreement. The words can be confused because both are often used with 'sich sein': 'sich einig sein' (to agree) and 'sich uneins sein' (to be at odds). Pay attention to the prefix 'un-': it turns agreement into its opposite. 'Einig' means a shared opinion; 'uneins' means no shared opinion.
uneins
Nach dem Gespräch sind die Kollegen noch immer uneins über die beste Lösung.
After the conversation, the colleagues are still at odds over the best solution.
einig
Beim Thema Geld sind sich die Eltern schnell einig.
When it comes to money, the parents agree quickly.