Language
Dutch
Level
B1
Unit
Voorzetsels
Practice types
0

What this grammar point covers

Prepositions of place in Dutch are words that show where something or someone is located.

When to use it

Use these prepositions to describe the location of people, objects, or places in relation to something else.

Key forms

  • op (on)
  • in (in)
  • onder (under)
  • boven (above)
  • naast (next to)
  • tussen (between)
  • achter (behind)
  • voor (in front of)

Examples

Het boek ligt op de tafel.

English: The book is on the table.

De kat zit onder de stoel.

English: The cat is under the chair.

Wij wonen naast het park.

English: We live next to the park.

De auto staat tussen de bomen.

English: The car is between the trees.

Er hangt een lamp boven de tafel.

English: There is a lamp above the table.

Tips

  • Pay attention to the difference between 'op' (on a surface) and 'in' (inside something).
  • Some prepositions change the article: 'in het huis', but 'op de tafel'.
  • Do not add an extra word like 'aan' or 'bij' unless it is needed in Dutch.

Exceptions and edge cases

  • Some locations use fixed combinations, like 'op school' (at school), even if it is inside.

Verify this grammar point in Dutch reference sources

Cross-check the rule and examples in established native references. Each link opens in a new tab.

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