Unterüberschrift

Unterüberschrift is a term used in German typography and document design to designate a secondary heading that follows a Hauptüberschrift (main heading) and introduces a subsection of text. It helps structure content, guiding readers through a topic in a hierarchical manner and improving readability.

Etymology and meaning: The word combines Unter- (under, subordinate) with Überschrift (heading). The term literally describes a heading that stands under another heading. It is commonly used in books, articles, reports, and websites to divide topics within a larger section. It is distinct from Untertitel, which refers to a subtitle for media items or a caption, and from Überschrift, which usually denotes the main title of a work.

Usage and style: In printed material, Unterüberschrift is typically set in a smaller or lighter type than the Hauptüberschrift, and may be bolded or capitalized depending on the style guide. In digital formats, the structure is implemented with heading levels (for example, h2 or h3 in HTML) to reflect the hierarchy. Editors are advised to use a clear sequence of levels and to avoid skipping levels.

Alternative terms: Sometimes Zwischentitel or Zwischenüberschrift are used synonymously, though regional or organizational style guides may prefer one term over another.

Example: In a text about climate policy, the structure might be: Hauptüberschrift: Klimapolitik in der EU. Unterüberschrift: Emissionshandelssysteme. Unterüberschrift: Nationale Anpassungsstrategien.