Dutch grammar: bijzinnen met 'dat'

What this grammar point covers

In Dutch, 'bijzinnen met dat' are subordinate clauses that start with 'dat'. These clauses give extra information, often about what someone thinks, says, or feels.

When to use it

Use this structure when you want to report what someone says, thinks, knows, or believes. It is common after verbs like 'zeggen', 'denken', 'weten', and 'vinden'.

Key forms

• Hoofdzin + dat + bijzin
• Ik denk dat hij komt.
• Zij zegt dat het regent.

Examples

Tips

• In the 'dat'-clause, the verb goes to the end of the clause.
• Do not use a comma before 'dat' in Dutch.
• Remember to use 'dat' only when the subject is not a direct question.

Exceptions and edge cases

• If the main clause is a question, 'dat' is usually not used.
• Some verbs use 'of' instead of 'dat' when expressing uncertainty.