Ik lees een boek terwijl mijn broer televisie kijkt.
English: I read a book while my brother watches TV.
- Language
- Dutch
- Level
- B1
- Unit
- Bijzinnen en voegwoorden
- Practice types
- 0
What this grammar point covers
In Dutch, 'terwijl' is a word used to connect two actions happening at the same time. It introduces a subordinate clause (bijzin) that shows what is happening while something else is happening.
When to use it
Use 'terwijl' to talk about two activities or events that happen at the same time, but often by different people or things. It can also show contrast between two actions.
Key forms
- 'terwijl' + subject + rest + verb at the end
- Main clause + 'terwijl' + bijzin
- 'Terwijl' + bijzin + main clause
Examples
Terwijl het regent, fietsen wij naar school.
English: While it is raining, we cycle to school.
Zij kookt terwijl hij de tafel dekt.
English: She cooks while he sets the table.
Hij luistert naar muziek terwijl hij zijn huiswerk maakt.
English: He listens to music while he does his homework.
Tips
- Remember: In the 'terwijl'-clause, the verb goes at the end.
- You can put the 'terwijl'-clause before or after the main clause.
- Do not use a comma before 'terwijl' if the main clause comes first.