Final expressions
B2 · Upper-Intermediate · Style & Precision
The rule
damit, um … zu, zwecks.
How it works
Final expressions state the purpose of an action. Damit introduces a clause with a different subject, um … zu uses an infinitive with the same subject, zwecks and zu diesem Zweck are formal and used with a noun phrase. The choice depends on whether the subject is the same and on the level of formality.
When to use it
Express purpose with damit, um … zu, zwecks and zu diesem Zweck.
Use cases
- Stating a purpose in everyday speech: Ich spare, damit ich reisen kann
- Writing a formal purpose: Zwecks Klärung der Lage findet ein Treffen statt
- Explaining a plan: Um gesund zu bleiben, gehe ich jeden Tag spazieren
Examples
- Wir sparen, um zu reisen – We save in order to travel
- Wir treffen uns, um das Projekt zu besprechen. – We meet to discuss the project.
- Zu diesem Zweck wurde eine Kommission gegründet. – For this purpose a commission was set up.
- Die Firma investiert, damit sie wächst. – The company invests so that it grows.
Common mistake
Using the infinitive with damit: "damit" needs a clause with a verb at the end.
Memory tip
Damit + clause (verb at end); um … zu + infinitive (same subject).
Read the wider picture in our guide: German Verbs and Word Order: Tenses, Modals and Sentence Structure.