der Selbstzweck
Translation
end in itself
Examples
Kunst ist für ihn kein Mittel zum Zweck, sondern Selbstzweck.
For him, art is not a means to an end, but an end in itself.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) is an end in itself For her, the work is an end in itself.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Eigenzweck; Antonyms: Mittel zum Zweck (means to an end)
Etymology
Composed of 'Selbst' (self) and 'Zweck' (purpose). It literally means 'self-purpose'.
Memory Tips
Think of something that is done for its own sake, not to achieve something else, like a hobby.