ändam

ändam is a Swedish noun that denotes purpose, aim, or use. In contemporary language, the form is most often encountered in compounds and fixed expressions rather than as a common stand-alone term. The more frequent word for “purpose” in everyday Swedish is usually syfte or ändamål, with ändam appearing primarily in formal, legal, or historical contexts.

In use, ändam frequently appears as part of phrases that point to the intended end or function of something. A common example is för detta ändamål, meaning “for this purpose.” The related adjective ändamålsenlig is used to describe something that is fit for its intended purpose, and ändamålsenlighet refers to the quality of being suitable for use. Because of its formal flavor,ändam tends to be found in official texts, policy documents, or older literature rather than in casual speech.

Etymologically, ändam is linked to the broader concept of intent or end and is closely associated with the word ändamål (the end or purpose). While the standalone noun is recognized in Swedish, most modern writers favor ändamål or syfte when expressing the idea of a goal or objective.

See also: ändamål, syfte, ändamålsenlighet.