Ausstellungszwecken

Ausstellungszwecken is a German expression that denotes a specific purpose: for exhibition purposes or for display purposes. It is a compound noun formed from Ausstellen (to display) and Zweck (purpose), with the plural dative ending -en forming Ausstellungszwecken. The phrase is used in formal and legal contexts to restrict the use of an object, document, or work to being shown in exhibitions or public displays.

Common contexts include museums, galleries, and trade fairs where objects are described as intended only for Ausstellungszwecken. It appears in contracts, licenses, or terms of use to limit rights to display and not for sale, reproduction, or further processing. It can also appear in loan agreements, insurance documents, and inventories. In copyright and intellectual property, restrictions may specify use zu Ausstellungszwecken rather than for commercial exploitation.

Usage notes: It is usually used with prepositions such as für or zu, as in zu Ausstellungszwecken or für Ausstellungszwecke. The phrase is neutral in tone and denotes a clearly defined, limited purpose. The concept is linked to the broader legal notion of Zweckbindung and purpose limitation in contracts and public law.

Etymology: from Ausstellen (to display) and Zweck (purpose).