Kun je me helpen, alsjeblieft?
English: Can you help me, please?
- Language
- Dutch
- Level
- A0
- Unit
- Gebiedende wijs en verzoeken
- Practice types
- 0
What this grammar point covers
A polite request in Dutch asks someone to do something in a friendly, indirect way.
When to use it
Use it whenever you want a softer, more polite tone than a plain imperative.
Key forms
- Kun je / Kunt u + infinitief?
- Zou je / Zou u + infinitief willen?
- Wil je / Wilt u + infinitief?
- Alsjeblieft / Alstublieft + imperatief
Examples
Zou u dat kunnen herhalen?
English: Could you repeat that?
Doe het raam dicht, alsjeblieft.
English: Please close the window.
Wil je wat water?
English: Would you like some water?
Tips
- 'Zou' is more polite than 'kun'.
- Use 'u' for formal situations, 'je' for informal.
- Adding 'alsjeblieft' or 'alstublieft' always increases politeness.
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