bijzinnen met 'mits' grammar in Dutch

Language: Dutch
Level: B1
Unit: Bijzinnen en voegwoorden
Practice types: 0

What this grammar point covers

In Dutch, 'mits' is a conjunction that introduces a condition. It is used to mean 'provided that' or 'only if'. It is used to connect two clauses, where the second clause gives the condition for the first.

When to use it

Use 'mits' when you want to say that something will only happen if a specific condition is met. It is often used to set a strict requirement for the main action.

Key forms

'mits' + bijzin (subordinate clause):
Hoofdzin, mits bijzin.
Ik ga mee, mits ik tijd heb.

Examples

Je mag naar buiten, mits je je huiswerk af hebt.

English: You may go outside, provided that you have finished your homework.

We gaan zwemmen, mits het niet regent.

English: We will go swimming, provided that it doesn't rain.

Hij helpt mee, mits hij op tijd klaar is.

English: He will help, provided that he is ready on time.

Je krijgt een toetje, mits je je bord leeg eet.

English: You get dessert, provided that you finish your plate.

Tips

The verb in the 'mits' clause goes to the end, because it is a subordinate clause.
Do not confuse 'mits' with 'tenzij'. 'Mits' gives a condition that must be true; 'tenzij' means 'unless'.
'Mits' is quite formal. In spoken Dutch, people sometimes use 'als' instead, but 'mits' is more precise.