Ik eet altijd ontbijt, tenzij ik haast heb.
English: I always eat breakfast, unless I am in a hurry.
- Language
- Dutch
- Level
- B1
- Unit
- Bijzinnen en voegwoorden
- Practice types
- 0
What this grammar point covers
In Dutch, 'tenzij' means 'unless'. It is used to introduce a condition in a subordinate clause that makes the main action not happen. This is called a 'bijzin met tenzij' (subordinate clause with 'tenzij').
When to use it
Use 'tenzij' to say that something will happen, except if a special condition is true. It shows an exception to the main statement.
Key forms
- Hoofdzin + tenzij + bijzin
- Example: Ik ga naar buiten, tenzij het regent.
Examples
We gaan wandelen, tenzij het te koud is.
English: We are going for a walk, unless it is too cold.
Je mag mee, tenzij je geen tijd hebt.
English: You may come along, unless you have no time.
Hij koopt een nieuwe jas, tenzij hij genoeg geld heeft.
English: He will buy a new coat, unless he has enough money.
Tips
- The verb in the 'tenzij' clause goes to the end of the sentence.
- Do not use 'tenzij' and 'als' together. Use only one.
- Remember, 'tenzij' always introduces an exception.