German Phrase

Ich hoffe, etwas Positives bewirken zu können.

/ɪç ˈhɔfə ˈɛtvas poziˈtiːvəs bəˈvɪʁkn̩ tsu ˈkœnən/

Meaning"I hope to be able to make a positive difference."

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Meaning

This phrase expresses a sincere desire to have a constructive impact or to effect change in a specific situation. It combines the verb 'hoffen' (to hope) with a complex infinitive construction to indicate both the goal and the capability to reach it.

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When to use

This is ideal for professional contexts such as job interviews, cover letters, or performance reviews. It is also used in personal conversations when discussing social engagement, volunteering, or life goals.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Ich hoffe,etwas Positivesbewirkenzu können

Nominalized Adjectives

After 'etwas', adjectives function as nouns. They must be capitalized and take the '-es' ending.

Double Infinitive with 'zu'

In this structure, the main action verb 'bewirken' remains in the infinitive, while the 'zu' is attached to the modal verb 'können'.

🗨In Conversation

Warum möchten Sie ausgerechnet in unserer NGO arbeiten?

Why do you want to work specifically for our NGO?

Ich hoffe, etwas Positives bewirken zu können.

I hope to be able to make a positive difference.

✕Common Mistakes

Ich hoffe etwas Positives zu bewirken können.
When using a modal verb like 'können' in an infinitive clause with 'zu', the 'zu' must precede the modal verb at the very end.
Ich hoffe etwas positives bewirken zu können.
Adjectives following 'etwas' are nominalized and must be capitalized.

↔Alternatives

Ich möchte einen positiven Beitrag leisten.
I would like to make a positive contribution.
Ich will etwas bewegen.
I want to get things moving / make a difference.

Cultural Tip

In German-speaking professional environments, expressing a 'Gestaltungswille' (the desire to shape things) is highly valued. Using 'bewirken' suggests you are a person of action who cares about results rather than just completing tasks.