Dutch grammar: bijvoeglijke naamwoorden

What this grammar point covers

In Dutch, 'bijvoeglijke naamwoorden' are adjectives. They describe or give more information about a noun (a person, animal, or thing).

When to use it

Use adjectives in Dutch to describe nouns, such as color, size, or quality. You often place the adjective before the noun.

Key forms

• The basic form: groot huis
• With -e ending: grote man
• No -e after 'een' + 'onzijdig' (het) word: een groot huis

Examples

Tips

• Most adjectives get an -e ending when they come before a noun.
• After 'een' and with a 'het' word in singular, do not add -e.
• Remember: colors, sizes, and qualities are all adjectives.

Exceptions and edge cases

• Some adjectives do not get an -e, like 'leuk' in 'iets leuks'.
• Irregular adjectives: goed → goede, but 'iets goeds'.