Ik zet de verwarming aan zodat het warm wordt.
English: I turn on the heating so that it gets warm.
- Language
- Dutch
- Level
- B1
- Unit
- Bijzinnen en voegwoorden
- Practice types
- 0
What this grammar point covers
In Dutch, 'zodat' is a conjunction used to introduce a subordinate clause that shows the purpose or result of an action. It means 'so that' or 'in order that.'
When to use it
Use 'zodat' when you want to explain why something happens, or what the intended result or effect is. It connects an action with its purpose or consequence.
Key forms
- Main clause + zodat + subordinate clause (bijzin)
- In the 'zodat'-clause, the verb goes to the end.
- Example: Ik praat langzaam zodat iedereen mij kan begrijpen.
Examples
Hij studeert hard zodat hij slaagt voor het examen.
English: He studies hard so that he passes the exam.
We vertrekken vroeg zodat we op tijd aankomen.
English: We leave early so that we arrive on time.
Zij spreekt duidelijk zodat iedereen haar kan verstaan.
English: She speaks clearly so that everyone can understand her.
Tips
- Remember to put the verb at the end of the 'zodat' clause.
- Do not confuse 'zodat' with 'omdat'—'zodat' shows purpose or result, not reason.
- 'Zodat' always introduces a subordinate clause (bijzin).