so that / with it
Loading your saved state.
so that
As a conjunction, introduces a subordinate clause that describes the purpose, goal, or intention of the action in the main clause.
Er spricht lauter, damit ihn alle verstehen können.
He speaks louder so that everyone can understand him.
with it
Functions as a pronominal adverb and means 'with that' or 'with this thing'. It refers to something that was mentioned previously.
Hier ist ein Stift. Damit kannst du unterschreiben.
Here is a pen. You can sign with it.
You can recognize the difference by the sentence structure: As a conjunction, 'damit' (so that) introduces a whole subordinate clause whose verb comes at the end. As an adverb, 'damit' (with it/with that) stands on its own and refers to a thing; if it comes at the beginning of the sentence, the verb follows directly.
Ich beeile mich, damit wir den Zug nicht verpassen. (Konjunktion)
I'm hurrying so that we don't miss the train. (conjunction)
As a conjunction, 'damit' (so that) describes a goal or purpose. One important feature is that the subject in the main clause and in the subordinate clause can be different.
Die Eltern sparen Geld, damit ihre Kinder später studieren können.
The parents are saving money so that their children can study later.
As a pronominal adverb, 'damit' (with it/with that) is a compound of 'da' and 'mit'. It literally means 'with that' or 'with this thing' and replaces a previously mentioned thing to avoid repetition.
Ich habe ein neues Programm installiert. Damit arbeite ich viel schneller.
I installed a new program. I work much faster with it.
at / around / in order to
Both damit and um ... zu can express a purpose. Damit introduces a complete subordinate clause and allows a different subject. Um ... zu is used with an infinitive and normally fits when the same person performs both actions.
Ich erkläre die Aufgabe noch einmal, damit alle sie verstehen.
I am explaining the task one more time so that everyone understands it.
Ich lese die Aufgabe noch einmal, um sie besser zu verstehen.
I am reading the task one more time in order to understand it better.
