Dependent Clauses: Constructing and Using Them in Dutch

Dependent clauses are an essential component of both written and spoken Dutch. They allow us to express complex ideas, add more information, and give our sentences depth and clarity. In this guide, we will learn how to correctly construct and use dependent clauses in Dutch.

What is a Dependent Clause?

A dependent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb, but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It relies on an independent clause to form a complete thought. Dependent clauses are also called subordinate clauses.

Dependent Clause Markers

In Dutch, dependent clauses are often introduced by specific words or phrases called dependent clause markers. These markers indicate the type and relationship of the dependent clause to the main clause. Here are some commonly used dependent clause markers in Dutch:

• "dat" (that)
• "omdat" (because)
• "als" (if)
• "hoewel" (although)
• "wanneer" (when)
• "waar" (where)

These words or phrases introduce the dependent clause and connect it to the main clause. They are usually placed at the beginning of the dependent clause.

Types of Dependent Clauses

Dependent clauses in Dutch can be categorized into different types based on their function. Let's explore the most common types:

1. Purpose Clauses

Purpose clauses express the reason behind an action. They are introduced by "om te" followed by the infinitive form of the verb. For example:

• "Ik ga naar de winkel om boodschappen te doen." (I am going to the store to do some shopping.)
• "Hij studeert hard om goede cijfers te halen." (He studies hard in order to get good grades.)

2. Reason Clauses

Reason clauses provide the cause or reason for something. They are introduced by "omdat" (because) or "daarom" (therefore). For example:

• "Ik ben moe omdat ik laat naar bed ben gegaan." (I am tired because I went to bed late.)
• "Hij is ziek daarom kan hij niet komen." (He is sick, therefore he can't come.)

3. Conditional Clauses

Conditional clauses express a condition or situation upon which something else depends. They are introduced by "als" (if) or "wanneer" (when). For example:

• "Als het regent, neem ik een paraplu mee." (If it rains, I'll take an umbrella.)
• "Wanneer je klaar bent, bel me dan." (When you are finished, call me.)

4. Time Clauses

Time clauses indicate when an action takes place. They are introduced by "wanneer" (when), "terwijl" (while), or "voordat" (before). For example:

• "Wanneer ik thuiskom, ga ik koken." (When I come home, I'll cook.)
• "Hij luistert naar muziek terwijl hij aan het werk is." (He listens to music while he is working.)
• "Voordat ik naar bed ga, lees ik een boek." (Before I go to bed, I read a book.)

5. Concessive Clauses

Concessive clauses express a contrast or concession. They are introduced by "hoewel" (although) or "ofschoon" (although). For example:

• "Hoewel het regent, ga ik naar buiten." (Although it's raining, I'm going outside.)
• "Ofschoon ze veel heeft gestudeerd, slaagt ze niet altijd." (Although she has studied a lot, she doesn't always succeed.)

Word Order in Dependent Clauses

Dependent clauses have a different word order compared to independent clauses in Dutch. The verb is usually placed at the end of the clause. Here's the typical word order in dependent clauses:

Subject - Verb - Other Elements

Practice, Practice, Practice!

The best way to master dependent clauses is through practice. As you encounter different types of dependent clauses in your reading and listening exercises, pay attention to the structure and meaning. Practice constructing your own sentences using the various types of dependent clauses.

By mastering dependent clauses, you will enhance your ability to express complex ideas and improve your overall proficiency in written and spoken Dutch.