Dutch grammar: gebruik van 'zullen' + infinitief

What this grammar point covers

In Dutch, 'zullen' + infinitive is used to talk about the future, make promises, offers, or suggestions. 'Zullen' is a modal verb, and it is combined with the infinitive form of another verb.

When to use it

You use 'zullen' + infinitive in Dutch to talk about something that will happen in the future, to make an offer, a promise, or a suggestion.

Key forms

• 'ik zal' + infinitive (Ik zal werken)
• 'jij zult' + infinitive (Jij zult komen)
• 'hij/zij/het zal' + infinitive (Hij zal studeren)
• 'wij zullen' + infinitive (Wij zullen reizen)
• 'jullie zullen' + infinitive (Jullie zullen helpen)
• 'zij zullen' + infinitive (Zij zullen beginnen)

Examples

Tips

• Remember that the infinitive verb goes at the end of the sentence.
• 'Zullen' changes depending on the subject (ik zal, jij zult, hij zal, etc.).
• For making polite offers or suggestions, use 'zullen' in questions.

Exceptions and edge cases

• In spoken Dutch, 'jij zult' is often replaced by 'jij zal'.
• For 'jij' after the verb, use 'zal' instead of 'zult' (e.g., 'Zal jij komen?').