Ik heb één boek.
English: I have one book.
- Language
- Dutch
- Level
- A1
- Unit
- Zelfstandige naamwoorden en lidwoorden
- Practice types
- 0
What this grammar point covers
In Dutch, nouns can be singular (one) or plural (more than one). This is called 'enkelvoud en meervoud van zelfstandige naamwoorden'.
When to use it
Use the singular form when talking about one person, animal, or thing. Use the plural form when you are talking about two or more.
Key forms
- Most plurals add -en: boek → boeken
- Some plurals add -s: auto → auto's
- Some words change spelling: man → mannen
Examples
Wij lezen boeken.
English: We read books.
De kat slaapt.
English: The cat sleeps.
De katten spelen.
English: The cats play.
Tips
- Most Dutch nouns make the plural with -en, but some use -s.
- Watch out for spelling changes, like double consonants or dropping vowels.
- Some words have irregular plurals – check the dictionary if you are unsure.
Exceptions and edge cases
- Some words have irregular plurals, like kind → kinderen.
- Loanwords often use -s, like taxi → taxi's.