Dutch infinitive (verbs with and without 'te')
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Lesson outline
Hide- 1.What is the infinitive in Dutch?
- 2.Infinitive verbs with ‘te’
- 3.Infinitive verbs without ‘te’
- 4.Other categories of infinitives without 'te'
- 4.1.Transitive verbs and the bare infinitive
- 4.2.'Zijn' + 'aan het' + infinitive
- 5.Other uses of the Dutch infinitive
- 6.Exercises
- 6.1.Exercise to practice Dutch infinitive (with 'te')
- 6.2.Exercise to practice Dutch infinitive (without 'te')
What is the infinitive in Dutch?
The infinitive in Dutch is the not conjugated verb in the present. Most Dutch infinitives end in '-en', such as 'lopen' (to walk), 'werken' (to work), 'eten' (to eat). There are some exceptions that end in '-n', for example:
- Slaan (to hit)
- Gaan (to go)
- Staan (to stand)
- Zijn (to be)
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Infinitive verbs with ‘te’
The table below shows you the situations where 'te + infinitive' is used.
| Situation | Example | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. The verbs 'lopen', 'staan', 'zitten','liggen' and 'hangen' are used to describe another action in combination with the 'te' + infinitive construction. |
|
|
| 2. When the adjective indirectly says something about the infinitive 'te + infinitive' is used. |
|
|
| 3. The construction 'te' + infinitive is used to say that something is possible. |
|
|
| 4. 'Te' in combination with an infinitive is used in subclauses. |
|
|
| 5. The infinitive with 'te' is used after prepositions. |
|
|
Infinitive verbs without ‘te’
The table below shows the situations in which infinitive verbs without 'te' are used.
| Situation | Example | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. You want to describe how an action (infinitive) is carried out. |
|
|
| 2. The infinitive without 'te' is used when there is a transitive verb in the sentence. |
|
|
| 3. You want to describe a continuous action with 'zijn' + 'aan het' + infinitive. |
|
|
| 4. The modal verb is used to describe the action (infinitive) that is being carried out. The action is in this case the infinitive. |
|
|
Other categories of infinitives without 'te'
1) Transitive verbs and the bare infinitive
The transitive verbs describe the recognition of someone else performing an action (infinitive).
Example:
- Zij hoort hem praten.
- Hij zag haar rennen.
2) 'Zijn' + 'aan het' + infinitive
This rule is used to describe a continuous action (infinitive). The verb 'zijn' has to be conjugated, followed by 'aan het'. The infinitive is normally at the end of the sentence.
Example:
- Jullie zijn de borden aan het afwassen.
- Ik ben aan het lezen.
Other uses of the Dutch infinitive
The Dutch infinitive is sometimes used as a noun. The articles 'de/het' (the) and 'een' (a) can be added to this noun.
Example:
- Het roken van sigaretten is niet goed voor je.
- Het eten van te veel eieren kan ongezond zijn.
Train your skills with the exercises about the infinitive below!
Exercises
- Exercise to practice Dutch infinitive (with 'te')
- Exercise to practice Dutch infinitive (without 'te')
Exercise to practice Dutch infinitive (with 'te')
Fill in the missing words according to the right situations where 'te + infinitive' is used. In addition, conjugate the first verb between brackets in the right tense.
- Example: Hij .... al de hele dag ...... (lopen, klagen) (present simple)
- Answer: Hij loopt al de hele dag te klagen.
- (He has been complaining all day.)
Ik al een uur op jou . (staan, wachten) (present simple) (I have been waiting an hour.)
Zij het moeilijk om . (vinden, begrijpen) (present simple) (She finds it hard to understand.)
Het . (zijn, doen) (present simple) (It is doable.)
Hij achter de deur . (vergeten, kijken) (past simple) (He forgot to look behind the door.)
Wij dat niet . (blijken, kunnen) (present simple) (We apparently are not able to do that.)
Ik nog . (zitten, eten) (past simple) (I was still eating.)
Ik een evenement op . (proberen, zetten) (present simple) (I try to organize an event.)
Het . (zijn, zwemmen) (present simple) (It is swimmable.)
Jullie het leuk om met haar . (vinden, praten) (present simple) (You find it nice to talk to her.)
Het net . (beginnen, regenen) (present simple) (It just started raining.)
Exercise to practice Dutch infinitive (without 'te')
Exercises
- Exercise to practice Dutch infinitive (with 'te')
- Exercise to practice Dutch infinitive (without 'te')
Exercise to practice Dutch infinitive (with 'te')
Fill in the missing words according to the right situations where 'te + infinitive' is used. In addition, conjugate the first verb between brackets in the right tense.
- Example: Hij .... al de hele dag ...... (lopen, klagen) (present simple)
- Answer: Hij loopt al de hele dag te klagen.
- (He has been complaining all day.)
Ik al een uur op jou . (staan, wachten) (present simple) (I have been waiting an hour.)
Zij het moeilijk om . (vinden, begrijpen) (present simple) (She finds it hard to understand.)
Het . (zijn, doen) (present simple) (It is doable.)
Hij achter de deur . (vergeten, kijken) (past simple) (He forgot to look behind the door.)
Wij dat niet . (blijken, kunnen) (present simple) (We apparently are not able to do that.)
Ik nog . (zitten, eten) (past simple) (I was still eating.)
Ik een evenement op . (proberen, zetten) (present simple) (I try to organize an event.)
Het . (zijn, zwemmen) (present simple) (It is swimmable.)
Jullie het leuk om met haar . (vinden, praten) (present simple) (You find it nice to talk to her.)
Het net . (beginnen, regenen) (present simple) (It just started raining.)
Exercise to practice Dutch infinitive (without 'te')
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Do you want to improve your Dutch for work and daily life in the Netherlands? I help young expats enhance their Dutch skills, so you can speak and write with more confidence. Not because you have to, but because you want to! My lessons are practical and focused on what you truly need, whether you’re a beginner or already at a higher level.
What you can expect:
Lessons for beginners to advanced learners (B2 to C1), with a methodical and structured approach
Exercises that fit your work and life in the Netherlands
Focus on building confidence and keeping your self-respect, as you find your place as a new resident
Long-term collaboration, aimed at lasting progress and making the most of your new country
In my lessons, you’ll not only learn the language but also how to communicate your unique value and fully use the opportunities in your new home. This way, you’ll get to know the Netherlands better and make your own special contribution!
Ready to improve your Dutch? Contact me and let’s explore the possibilities!
C. K.
Monique is fantastisch! We have been taking lessons since January to prepare for the Inburgeringexam and she has done a great job teaching and coaching us. Her approach, sense of humor, and clear communication make every class a treat. I highly recommend signing up for lessons with Monique!
Monique M.
Professor of Dutch
L. .
My children really enjoy Lauren’s lessons. She is very kind and patient and chooses fun topics for them.
Lauren D.
Hello,
I'm offering informal Dutch and English lessons based on conversation and will conduct my lessons for as much as possible in the target language.
I use text, weblinks to tv shows to get us talking and am a fan of the TPRS method.
There's a lot of information on that method online. Basically it's getting to know the structure Dutch and English through simple conversation. (questions about 1 or several sentences on any topic)
I have some useful weblinks to tv shows in Dutch (with subtitles in Dutch) adjusted to your level and the shows are entertaining too. :-)
We can discuss the shows preferably in the target language of course.
I can explain some grammar too if needed and have articles and books ready to read from. This again will be adjusted to your proficiency. But of course if you'd like to focus on a topic which has your interest that is possible as well. This makes it more personal and more fun.
I've been teaching for about a year now on another platform to students from all over the world and really enjoy having the experience again as I used to be a vocal coach back in the days when I attended conservatory in the Netherlands.
I hope to see you here on Co language. :-)
E. C.
Since when I started following lessons with Les, I find my Dutch skills improving much faster than just studying on my books. I really like his teaching method, flexible and spontaneous but indeed useful to improve my speaking and reading skills.
Less J.
I prepare lessons for each student individually based on their specific needs for each language. For example: if you language need is Business English, I prepare your lesson on what you need to do your work. If your language need is to practice your speaking skills, your lesson will be based on themes that you are interested in. If your language need is to learn English from scratch, we will discuss a program to get you started from the beginning to when you can speak English with confidence.
My tutoring also focusses on the development of my students. Through my classes, I aim to stimulate creativity, analytical skills, improve business skills, understanding of different cultures, problem-solving, communication skills, enhance my student's opportunities in worldwide jobs and to expand their worlds globally. Lessons are individually prepared for each student to learn grammar, vocabulary, speaking, listening, pronunciation and reading.
More about me:
I have been in tutoring and training for 15 years and I follow a communicative approach with interesting themes and discussions that draw on your life experiences and everyday situations.
I was born in South Africa and live close to Cape Town. I speak both Afrikaans and English as native languages. I studied Human Resources and specialized in training. In 2015 I added a TEFL/TESOL certificate to my qualifications. I was given a traditional African name by a student group in South Africa and they named me Noluthandu which means “a person who likes people.” This was a great honor for me. I am very much excited to walk the exciting path with you while learning a new language. Remember, it takes small steps to reach the top of the mountain of success.
S. G.
Marge is a very kind, positive and cheerful person. Every time she offers interesting and practical subjects we build our lessons around. The way she prizing me is a great motivation to move forward!
Marge H.
As non-native parents it is certainly not easy to teach your children Dutch or to help with the fluency of the new language. Who wants some extra exercise for his children? I can help you with that. As their vocabulary becomes more and more extensive and their sentences become increasingly fluid, your children will get more and more self-confident. To speak well the Dutch language will surely benefit them now and later.
Do your children need some help with their homework, especially with their Dutch, then I can help with that.
Even as non-native-speaking adults, it is sometimes difficult to have enough exercise. That is why also adults who want to make progress in speaking the Dutch language are welcome here! We can practice the everyday language together.
P. S.
Liesbet's teaching is progressive and adapted to the level of the student. His working method is very efficient, dynamic and focused on areas for improvement. The material used is varied: texts, videos, grammar exercises, pronunciation and vocabularies (synonyms, antonyms, nuances, etc.). The lessons are always different and never look like. Punctuality and seriousness. I highly recommend.
Liesbet L.
Hello,
I'm offering informal Dutch and English lessons based on conversation and will conduct my lessons for as much as possible in the target language.
I use text, weblinks to tv shows to get us talking and am a fan of the TPRS method.
There's a lot of information on that method online. Basically it's getting to know the structure Dutch and English through simple conversation. (questions about 1 or several sentences on any topic)
I have some useful weblinks to tv shows in Dutch (with subtitles in Dutch) adjusted to your level and the shows are entertaining too. :-)
We can discuss the shows preferably in the target language of course.
I can explain some grammar too if needed and have articles and books ready to read from. This again will be adjusted to your proficiency. But of course if you'd like to focus on a topic which has your interest that is possible as well. This makes it more personal and more fun.
I've been teaching for about a year now on another platform to students from all over the world and really enjoy having the experience again as I used to be a vocal coach back in the days when I attended conservatory in the Netherlands.
I hope to see you here on Co language. :-)
I am very satisfied with the lessons with Less. very understandable and interesting. highly recommend)
Less J.
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Do you want to improve your Dutch for work and daily life in the Netherlands? I help young expats enhance their Dutch skills, so you can speak and write with more confidence. Not because you have to, but because you want to! My lessons are practical and focused on what you truly need, whether you’re a beginner or already at a higher level.
What you can expect:
Lessons for beginners to advanced learners (B2 to C1), with a methodical and structured approach
Exercises that fit your work and life in the Netherlands
Focus on building confidence and keeping your self-respect, as you find your place as a new resident
Long-term collaboration, aimed at lasting progress and making the most of your new country
In my lessons, you’ll not only learn the language but also how to communicate your unique value and fully use the opportunities in your new home. This way, you’ll get to know the Netherlands better and make your own special contribution!
Ready to improve your Dutch? Contact me and let’s explore the possibilities!
S. W.
I am really enjoying my lessons with Monique, she listened to my thoughts around my learning style and has made me feel really comfortable during our sessions. I would highly recommend!
Monique M.
As non-native parents it is certainly not easy to teach your children Dutch or to help with the fluency of the new language. Who wants some extra exercise for his children? I can help you with that. As their vocabulary becomes more and more extensive and their sentences become increasingly fluid, your children will get more and more self-confident. To speak well the Dutch language will surely benefit them now and later.
Do your children need some help with their homework, especially with their Dutch, then I can help with that.
Even as non-native-speaking adults, it is sometimes difficult to have enough exercise. That is why also adults who want to make progress in speaking the Dutch language are welcome here! We can practice the everyday language together.
We have been having Dutch lessons with Liesbet now since July last year. I must say that not only is she professional, punctual and conscientious. Ava’s Dutch has come on leaps and bounds, as has mine. As such we have two lessons a week, and I 100 percent whole heartedly recommend Liesbet to anyone looking to improve their language skills. Her technique and teaching skills are exceptional.
Liesbet L.
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You are welcome, Ioana! I am happy to know that you are so satisfied about our collaboration. You've done good progress and I am sure you will, eventually, achieve your goals. Look forward to continue to guide you in this!
Do you want to improve your Dutch for work and daily life in the Netherlands? I help young expats enhance their Dutch skills, so you can speak and write with more confidence. Not because you have to, but because you want to! My lessons are practical and focused on what you truly need, whether you’re a beginner or already at a higher level.
What you can expect:
Lessons for beginners to advanced learners (B2 to C1), with a methodical and structured approach
Exercises that fit your work and life in the Netherlands
Focus on building confidence and keeping your self-respect, as you find your place as a new resident
Long-term collaboration, aimed at lasting progress and making the most of your new country
In my lessons, you’ll not only learn the language but also how to communicate your unique value and fully use the opportunities in your new home. This way, you’ll get to know the Netherlands better and make your own special contribution!
Ready to improve your Dutch? Contact me and let’s explore the possibilities!
O. T.
Monique is a very experienced teacher. She has very good communication and teaching skills. She shapes the lesson according to your learning wishes and helps you to get the best from it.
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E. C.
I really enjoyed this lesson! Carina answered some questions I had and helped me in practicing talking. I found it extremely useful.
F S.
Do you want to improve your Dutch for work and daily life in the Netherlands? I help young expats enhance their Dutch skills, so you can speak and write with more confidence. Not because you have to, but because you want to! My lessons are practical and focused on what you truly need, whether you’re a beginner or already at a higher level.
What you can expect:
Lessons for beginners to advanced learners (B2 to C1), with a methodical and structured approach
Exercises that fit your work and life in the Netherlands
Focus on building confidence and keeping your self-respect, as you find your place as a new resident
Long-term collaboration, aimed at lasting progress and making the most of your new country
In my lessons, you’ll not only learn the language but also how to communicate your unique value and fully use the opportunities in your new home. This way, you’ll get to know the Netherlands better and make your own special contribution!
Ready to improve your Dutch? Contact me and let’s explore the possibilities!
C. K.
Monique is fantastisch! We have been taking lessons since January to prepare for the Inburgeringexam and she has done a great job teaching and coaching us. Her approach, sense of humor, and clear communication make every class a treat. I highly recommend signing up for lessons with Monique!
Monique M.
Professor of Dutch
L. .
My children really enjoy Lauren’s lessons. She is very kind and patient and chooses fun topics for them.
Lauren D.
Hello,
I'm offering informal Dutch and English lessons based on conversation and will conduct my lessons for as much as possible in the target language.
I use text, weblinks to tv shows to get us talking and am a fan of the TPRS method.
There's a lot of information on that method online. Basically it's getting to know the structure Dutch and English through simple conversation. (questions about 1 or several sentences on any topic)
I have some useful weblinks to tv shows in Dutch (with subtitles in Dutch) adjusted to your level and the shows are entertaining too. :-)
We can discuss the shows preferably in the target language of course.
I can explain some grammar too if needed and have articles and books ready to read from. This again will be adjusted to your proficiency. But of course if you'd like to focus on a topic which has your interest that is possible as well. This makes it more personal and more fun.
I've been teaching for about a year now on another platform to students from all over the world and really enjoy having the experience again as I used to be a vocal coach back in the days when I attended conservatory in the Netherlands.
I hope to see you here on Co language. :-)
E. C.
Since when I started following lessons with Les, I find my Dutch skills improving much faster than just studying on my books. I really like his teaching method, flexible and spontaneous but indeed useful to improve my speaking and reading skills.
Less J.
I prepare lessons for each student individually based on their specific needs for each language. For example: if you language need is Business English, I prepare your lesson on what you need to do your work. If your language need is to practice your speaking skills, your lesson will be based on themes that you are interested in. If your language need is to learn English from scratch, we will discuss a program to get you started from the beginning to when you can speak English with confidence.
My tutoring also focusses on the development of my students. Through my classes, I aim to stimulate creativity, analytical skills, improve business skills, understanding of different cultures, problem-solving, communication skills, enhance my student's opportunities in worldwide jobs and to expand their worlds globally. Lessons are individually prepared for each student to learn grammar, vocabulary, speaking, listening, pronunciation and reading.
More about me:
I have been in tutoring and training for 15 years and I follow a communicative approach with interesting themes and discussions that draw on your life experiences and everyday situations.
I was born in South Africa and live close to Cape Town. I speak both Afrikaans and English as native languages. I studied Human Resources and specialized in training. In 2015 I added a TEFL/TESOL certificate to my qualifications. I was given a traditional African name by a student group in South Africa and they named me Noluthandu which means “a person who likes people.” This was a great honor for me. I am very much excited to walk the exciting path with you while learning a new language. Remember, it takes small steps to reach the top of the mountain of success.
S. G.
Marge is a very kind, positive and cheerful person. Every time she offers interesting and practical subjects we build our lessons around. The way she prizing me is a great motivation to move forward!
Marge H.