zugunsten

Zugunsten is a German preposition meaning "in favor of" or "for the benefit of." It is used to indicate the beneficiary or purpose of an action, donation, decision, or other measure. The expression is common in formal, legal, administrative, and charitable language, as well as in journalism.

Origin and form: The term comes from zu (to) and Gunst (favor, kindness). In modern usage, zugunsten is usually written as a single word and governs the genitive case of the beneficiary noun.

Grammar and examples: When used, the beneficiary noun typically appears in the genitive. Examples include: Spenden zugunsten der Stiftung (donations for the benefit of the foundation); Der Rechtsstreit wurde zugunsten des Klienten entschieden (the dispute was decided in the client’s favor). Another example: Eine Vollmacht zugunsten einer Dritten Person wurde erteilt. In formal writing, you may encounter the corresponding genitive forms such as zugunsten des Kindes or zugunsten der Gemeinde.

Usage and nuance: Zugunsten emphasizes the beneficiary’s advantage or welfare. It is more common in official or formal contexts than everyday speech. In casual language, speakers often substitute with einfachere Optionen such as für or zum Wohl, depending on the exact nuance. The phrase should not be confused with oppositional terms like gegen, which express opposition rather than benefit.

See also: related legal and charitable phrasing, including expressions that specify beneficiaries and purposes in contracts, wills, donations, and court decisions.