wozu

Wozu is a German interrogative adverb and pronoun that means “for what purpose” or “to what end.” It is used to ask about the purpose, function, or usefulness of something, often in questions or statements about intent.

Etymology and forms: Wozu is a fused form historically linked to the idea of “zu welchem Zweck” (to what purpose). The one-word construction is standard in modern German and can appear at the start of a question or within a sentence as part of a subordinate clause.

Usage and nuance: Wozu typically emphasizes the end or goal something is meant to achieve, rather than the reason or cause. It can be used in everyday speech and in written language. Examples include: “Wozu brauchst du das Werkzeug?” (What is that tool for?) and “Wozu dient dieses Schild?” (What is the purpose of this sign?). In indirect questions, it can appear in clauses like “Ich frage mich, wozu das gut ist” (I wonder what that is good for).

Relation to related terms: Wozu is closely related to Wofür, which also asks about purpose but often carries a sense of for whom or for which use. While both are used to discuss intended use, Wozu tends to foreground the end goal, whereas Wofür can focus more on practical application or beneficiary.

Register and style: Wozu is versatile and commonly used in both spoken and written German. In formal writing, it may be preferred for its concise, pointed focus on purpose.

See also: Wofür, Warum, Zweck.