damit
so that, in order that
Damit is a conjunction meaning 'so that' or 'in order that'. It introduces a clause expressing purpose or goal. It is also used as a pronominal adverb meaning 'with it/that', but that use is not covered here.
Heard in real German videos
Lines where damit was actually spoken, from German videos watched with DeutschChat.
- Damit niemand traurig ist.So that nobody is sad.
- Damit ich ganz alleine bin.So that I am all alone.
Example sentences
- Ich lerne Deutsch, damit ich in Deutschland arbeiten kann.I am learning German so that I can work in Germany.
- Sie spricht langsam, damit alle sie verstehen.She speaks slowly so that everyone understands her.
- Wir fahren früh los, damit wir den Zug nicht verpassen.We leave early so that we don't miss the train.
Grammar
| Type | subordinating conjunction |
|---|---|
| Verb position | verb goes to the end of the clause |
The verb in the damit-clause goes to the end.
Common phrases
- damit nichtso that not, lest
- nur damitjust so that
The mistake English speakers make
English speakers often use 'damit' to mean 'with that' (as a pronominal adverb) and then put the verb in the wrong position. When 'damit' is a conjunction, the verb must go to the end of the clause.
Don’t confuse it with
- um ... zu — Use 'um ... zu' when the subject of the main clause and the purpose clause are the same; use 'damit' when they are different or for emphasis.
- dass — 'Dass' means 'that' and introduces a fact or statement, while 'damit' expresses purpose.
Questions learners ask
What is the difference between 'damit' and 'um ... zu'?
Use 'um ... zu' when the subject of the main clause and the infinitive clause are the same. Use 'damit' when the subjects are different or when you want to emphasize the purpose.
Does the verb go to the end after 'damit'?
Yes, 'damit' is a subordinating conjunction, so the conjugated verb goes to the end of the clause.
Can 'damit' start a sentence?
Yes, you can start a sentence with 'damit'. The main clause then follows, often with the verb in second position.