Dutch grammar: gebruik van 'moeten', 'mogen', 'kunnen', 'willen'

What this grammar point covers

In Dutch, 'moeten', 'mogen', 'kunnen', and 'willen' are modal verbs. They are used to express necessity, permission, ability, or desire.

When to use it

Use these verbs to talk about what you need to do, what you are allowed to do, what you can do, or what you want to do. They are always followed by another verb in the infinitive at the end of the sentence.

Key forms

• 'moeten' – to have to, must
• 'mogen' – to be allowed to, may
• 'kunnen' – to be able to, can
• 'willen' – to want

Examples

Tips

• The modal verb comes in the second position, and the main verb goes to the end of the sentence.
• Modal verbs are irregular, so learn their forms.
• After a modal verb, do not use 'te' before the infinitive.

Exceptions and edge cases

• In questions, the modal verb comes first.
• Sometimes the main verb is left out if it is clear from context.