Syntax
Dutch Sentence Structure
How to build Dutch sentences correctly — word order, questions, negation placement, and clause types.
The Golden Rule: Verb-Second (V2)
In every Dutch main clause, the finite verb occupies position 2. The first position can hold any sentence element — subject, time expression, place, object — but whatever comes first, the verb must follow immediately.
| Position 1 | Position 2 (VERB) | Rest |
|---|---|---|
| Ik | werk | elke dag. |
| Elke dag | werk | ik. |
| Morgen | gaan | we naar Amsterdam. |
| In de supermarkt | koop | ik groente. |
| Gisteren | heeft | hij gegeten. |
Questions
Yes/No Questions
Start with the verb. Subject follows immediately.
Do you work here?
Does he have a car?
Are you ready?
Can you help me?
Open Questions (WH-)
Question word → verb → subject → rest.
What are you doing?
Where do you live?
When are you coming?
What time does the train leave?
Question Words Reference
what
who
where
when
how
why
which
how many
what time
how long
how far
with what
The Verb Cluster (End Position)
When multiple verbs appear, the main verb (infinitive or participle) goes to the end of the clause. The finite verb stays in position 2.
Subject + modal + ... + infinitive
Ik wil een boek lezen.
I want to read a book.
Subject + hebben/zijn + ... + past participle
Hij heeft gisteren gewerkt.
He worked yesterday.
Subord. clause: conj. + subject + ... + verb (end)
omdat hij ziek is.
...because he is sick.
Time – Manner – Place
When giving details, Dutch follows Time → Manner → Place order (the opposite of English).
I cycle to school quickly every day.
