The quality of two or more things being compatible with each other, meaning they fit together, do not contradict each other, or can exist at the same time.
example
Die Vereinbarkeit von Beruf und Familie ist für viele Eltern eine große Herausforderung.
The compatibility of work and family is a major challenge for many parents.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word is derived from the adjective 'vereinbar' (compatible). The ending '-keit' turns an adjective into a noun that describes a quality or state — here, the state of being compatible.
EXAMPLE
Diese beiden Ziele sind nicht miteinander vereinbar.
These two goals are not compatible with each other.
Sentence structure with 'von ... und'
'Vereinbarkeit' (compatibility) is almost always used in the fixed structure 'die Vereinbarkeit von [thing A] und [thing B]' (the compatibility of [thing A] and [thing B]). It connects two or more concepts that are meant to be brought into harmony.
EXAMPLE
Im Studium ist die Vereinbarkeit von Theorie und Praxis sehr wichtig.
In university studies, the compatibility of theory and practice is very important.
Typical collocations
The most common and best-known collocation is 'die Vereinbarkeit von Beruf und Familie' (the compatibility of work and family). Other typical pairs are 'Studium und Job' (studies and job) or 'Arbeit und Freizeit' (work and leisure time).
EXAMPLE
Viele Unternehmen werben mit der guten Vereinbarkeit von Arbeit und Freizeit.
Many companies advertise good compatibility between work and leisure time.
Compare with
antonym
Vereinbarkeit vs Widerspruch
contradiction / objection
'der Widerspruch' and 'die Vereinbarkeit' describe opposite relationships between things. With a 'Widerspruch', two statements, rules, or goals do not fit together. With 'Vereinbarkeit', two things can exist together or apply at the same time without interfering with each other. So 'Widerspruch' shows a problem or an opposition. 'Vereinbarkeit' shows that something is possible together.
Vereinbarkeit
Für viele Eltern ist die Vereinbarkeit von Beruf und Familie sehr wichtig.
For many parents, the compatibility of work and family is very important.
Widerspruch
Siehst du den Widerspruch zwischen diesen beiden Regeln?
Do you see the contradiction between these two rules?