The quality of an organization or activity serving the public good rather than private, commercial interests. This is often a legal status that comes with tax benefits.
example
Unser Sportverein hat die Anerkennung der Gemeinnützigkeit beantragt.
Our sports club has applied for recognition of its nonprofit status.
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is made up of 'gemein' (in the sense of general, for the community), 'nützig' (useful), and the ending '-keit' (-ness). So it literally describes the quality of being useful to the general public.
EXAMPLE
Die Förderung von Bildung ist ein Zeichen von Gemeinnützigkeit.
The promotion of education is a sign of nonprofit purpose.
Register and style
'Gemeinnützigkeit' (nonprofit status) is a formal term from legal and tax language. It is especially important for associations, foundations, and other organizations that want to receive tax benefits.
EXAMPLE
Das Finanzamt prüft die Gemeinnützigkeit des Vereins jedes Jahr.
The tax office reviews the club's nonprofit status every year.
Typical collocations
Common verbs used with this noun describe the official process: 'die Gemeinnützigkeit beantragen' (to apply for nonprofit status), 'anerkennen' (to recognize/approve), 'verlieren' (to lose), or 'aberkannt bekommen' (to have it revoked).
EXAMPLE
Nach der Prüfung wurde dem Verein die Gemeinnützigkeit anerkannt.
After the review, the club's nonprofit status was recognized.