Introduction to “Um … zu”
The German structure “um … zu” is used to express purpose, similar to “in order to” in English. It is typically used when the subject of the main clause and the purpose clause are the same.
Rules for Using “Um … zu”
- “Um … zu” introduces a purpose clause where both clauses have the same subject.
- The main verb in the purpose clause is placed at the end in the infinitive form after “zu.”
- Unlike “damit,” “um … zu” is only used when the subject of the main clause and purpose clause are the same.
Note: Remember to use “um … zu” when the subject is the same in both clauses. Use “damit” when the subjects differ.
Example Sentences Using “Um … zu”
- Ich lerne Deutsch, um in Deutschland zu arbeiten. (I am learning German in order to work in Germany.)
- Sie spart Geld, um eine Reise zu machen. (She saves money in order to take a trip.)
- Er steht früh auf, um pünktlich zu sein. (He gets up early in order to be on time.)
- Wir gehen ins Fitnessstudio, um fit zu bleiben. (We go to the gym to stay fit.)
- Ich gehe zum Supermarkt, um Lebensmittel zu kaufen. (I’m going to the supermarket to buy groceries.)
Common Sentence Structures with “Um … zu”
| Main Clause |
Purpose Clause with “Um … zu” |
| Ich gehe ins Café |
um einen Kaffee zu trinken. (to drink a coffee) |
| Er arbeitet hart |
um erfolgreich zu sein. (to be successful) |
| Wir reisen nach Berlin |
um das Brandenburger Tor zu sehen. (to see the Brandenburg Gate) |
| Sie lernt viel |
um gute Noten zu bekommen. (to get good grades) |
| Ich bleibe zu Hause |
um mich auszuruhen. (to rest) |
Examples of “Um … zu” Expressing Purpose
Here are additional examples that show how “um … zu” is used to express purpose:
- Ich nehme den Bus, um Geld zu sparen. (I take the bus to save money.)
- Sie kocht gesund, um sich besser zu fühlen. (She cooks healthy food to feel better.)
- Er macht eine Liste, um nichts zu vergessen. (He makes a list so as not to forget anything.)
- Wir gehen früh schlafen, um morgen fit zu sein. (We go to bed early to be fit tomorrow.)