Dutch grammar: gebruik van 'er'

What this grammar point covers

'Er' is a small but important word in Dutch. It is used in many different situations, often where English would use 'there', 'some', or leave the word out. It helps make sentences sound natural in Dutch.

When to use it

Use 'er' when talking about the existence of something (like 'there is'), when you don't know or mention the subject, with numbers or quantities, and in some fixed expressions with prepositions.

Key forms

• 'Er is' / 'Er zijn' (there is / there are)
• 'Er' as a placeholder subject
• 'Er' with prepositions (e.g., 'erop', 'eraan')
• 'Er' in sentences about quantity

Examples

Tips

• Do not translate 'er' directly from English; sometimes it is needed in Dutch even if English does not use 'there'.
• 'Er' often comes before the verb in Dutch sentences.
• Remember to use 'er' in questions about quantity or when the subject is not specific.

Exceptions and edge cases

• Sometimes 'er' is not needed if the subject is already clear or specific.
• 'Er' is not used with definite nouns (like 'de man is hier' instead of 'er is de man hier').