Koordinationsfeld

Koordinationsfeld is a term used in German grammar to describe the syntactic region of a sentence where elements are coordinated by coordinating conjunctions. It is located within the Mittelfeld of a Hauptsatz (main clause) and contains the coordinated units along with the linking conjunctions that join them. The coordinated elements can be words, phrases or clauses of equal status, such as NPs, VPs, PPs or entire clauses.

The primary function of the Koordinationsfeld is to group together elements that operate on the same syntactic level and to show their parallel relationship. Common coordinating conjunctions include und, oder, aber, denn, and zudem. In practice, coordination can involve simple lists, as in Ich kaufe einen Pullover und eine Mütze, or more complex structures with clauses, wie Er kommt, und sie bleibt. The field may also accommodate longer sequences, for example Wir essen Brot, Käse und Obst.

In descriptive grammar, the Koordinationsfeld helps describe how multiple constituents are ordered and how the conjunction position relates to surrounding elements. Nested or hierarchical coordination is possible, leading to configurations like Ich glaube, dass er kommt, und dass ich bleibe. The concept is contrasted with subordination, where elements are linked by subordinating conjunctions and form a hierarchical structure rather than parallel units.

Overall, the Koordinationsfeld provides a practical framework for analyzing and teaching how German coordinates multiple constituents within a sentence.