The process in which different things such as rules, systems, measurements, or laws are aligned and standardized so that they are the same or compatible.
example
Die Vereinheitlichung der europäischen Währungen führte zur Einführung des Euro.
The standardization of European currencies led to the introduction of the euro.
Usage tips
Word family
'Vereinheitlichung' (standardization) belongs to a word family: it is the noun form of the verb 'vereinheitlichen' (to standardize). This verb is derived from the adjective 'einheitlich' (uniform, standard), which in turn comes from 'die Einheit' (unity).
EXAMPLE
Man versucht, die Prüfungsanforderungen zu vereinheitlichen.
People are trying to standardize the examination requirements.
Use with genitive
To express what is being standardized, German usually uses the genitive. Alternatively, you can also use the preposition 'von' with the dative.
EXAMPLE
Die Vereinheitlichung der Gesetze in der EU ist ein langer Prozess.
The standardization of laws in the EU is a long process.
Typical collocations
This word is often used in connection with abstract concepts. Typical phrases are 'die Vereinheitlichung von Regeln' (the standardization of rules), 'von Systemen' (of systems), 'von Standards' (of standards), or 'von Gesetzen' (of laws).
EXAMPLE
Die Vereinheitlichung der IT-Systeme soll die Zusammenarbeit verbessern.
The standardization of the IT systems is intended to improve collaboration.
Register
'Vereinheitlichung' (standardization) is a formal word that is frequently used in politics, administration, business, and technology. It belongs to written language and technical language.
EXAMPLE
Im Protokoll wurde die Notwendigkeit einer Vereinheitlichung der Qualitätsstandards festgehalten.
The need for standardization of quality standards was recorded in the minutes.
Compare with
confusable
Vereinheitlichung vs Vereinigung
union / association
'die Vereinigung' and 'die Vereinheitlichung' sound similar and both have to do with 'one' or 'uniform'. But the difference is important: in a 'Vereinigung', people, groups, or things join together to form one unit. In a 'Vereinheitlichung', the things usually remain separate, but rules, systems, or processes are made the same. The words can be confused because both describe a process. As a guide: 'Vereinigung' means coming together, while 'Vereinheitlichung' means making things uniform.
Vereinheitlichung
Die Vereinheitlichung der Formulare spart im Büro viel Zeit.
The standardization of the forms saves a lot of time in the office.
Vereinigung
Die Vereinigung der beiden kleinen Vereine stärkt das Angebot im Stadtteil.
The union of the two small clubs strengthens what is offered in the neighborhood.