um
Translation
at (time), around (spatial), in order to (...zu)
Examples
Der Film beginnt um acht Uhr.
The movie starts at eight o'clock.
Wir sitzen um den Tisch.
We are sitting around the table.
Ich lerne, um fit zu bleiben.
I am learning in order to stay fit.
Grammar Patterns
((um)) ((time)) at (time) Der Zug kommt um 9 Uhr.
((um)) ((sth.acc)) around (sth.) Wir laufen um das Haus.
((um)) ((... to-inf)) in order to (do sth.) Ich arbeite, um Geld zu verdienen.
Similar Words
Synonyms: around, at; Antonyms: in
Etymology
From Old High German 'umb', related to Greek 'amphi'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'circumference' -> 'um' is for going around or exact points on a clock dial.