Zweck

Zweck is a German noun meaning purpose, aim, objective, or function. It denotes the intended result of an action or the use for which something is designed.

Usage and nuance: The phrase zum Zweck der introduces the purpose or objective behind an action. Zweck often emphasizes usefulness or function rather than a distant endpoint. Although related, Ziel tends to denote a concrete end point or goal, while Zweck can be more abstract or instrumental.

In philosophy and theory, Zweck is associated with teleology—the study of purposes in nature and human action. The related term Zweckmäßigkeit describes something that is appropriate or well-suited for a task, reflecting its suitability or efficiency.

In everyday and organizational contexts, der Zweck des Unternehmens refers to its mission or raison d’être. The concept also appears in legal and administrative language to specify the allowed use of resources or data, as in purposes for processing.