Language
Dutch
Level
A0
Unit
Hulpwoorden en kernwerkwoorden
Practice types
0

What this grammar point covers

Dutch does not use 'do' as a helper verb for negatives and questions like English. Instead, negatives and questions are formed differently.

When to use it

Use 'doen' only as a main verb (to do), not as a helper. For questions and negatives, change word order or add 'niet/geen'.

Key forms

  • doen (main verb only)
  • niet / geen for negatives
  • question word + verb + subject

Examples

Houd jij van thee?

English: Do you like tea?

Zij werkt hier niet.

English: She does not work here.

Zij spelen vandaag niet.

English: They do not play today.

Spreekt hij Engels?

English: Does he speak English?

Tips

  • Dutch forms questions by moving the verb before the subject.
  • Use 'niet' or 'geen' for negatives, not a helper verb.
  • Focus on recognizing Dutch question and negative patterns.

Exceptions and edge cases

  • The verb 'zijn' (to be) also does not use 'doen' for questions or negatives.

Verify this grammar point in Dutch reference sources

Cross-check the rule and examples in established native references. Each link opens in a new tab.

Word of the Day

Today's hand-picked vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation page for Dutch. Bookmark this section — it refreshes every day.

Vocabulary · Dutch · A1

zoet

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Grammar · Dutch · B2

gebruik van de toekomende tijd

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Pronunciation · Dutch

Lange klinkers - /aː/

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Keep exploring

Previous Werkwoord hebben: basis A0 · Hulpwoorden en kernwerkwoorden Next Persoonlijke voornaamwoorden (onderwerp) A0 · Voornaamwoorden, lidwoorden en verwijswoorden

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