Kom binnen!
English: Come in!
- Language
- Dutch
- Level
- B2
- Unit
- Werkwoordstijden en modale constructies
- Practice types
- 0
What this grammar point covers
The 'gebiedende wijs' in Dutch is the imperative mood. It is used to give orders, instructions, advice, or requests.
When to use it
Use the 'gebiedende wijs' when you want to tell someone what to do, give directions, instructions, or advice. It is also common in recipes, manuals, or signs.
Key forms
- Use the stem of the verb for commands: 'Loop!'
- For plural or polite (u), use the full verb form: 'Luister!' (singular), 'Luistert u!' (polite).
- For negative commands, add 'niet': 'Praat niet!'
Examples
Maak je huiswerk.
English: Do your homework.
Wees stil.
English: Be quiet.
Eet niet te snel.
English: Don't eat too quickly.
Luistert u goed.
English: Please listen carefully.
Tips
- The verb usually comes first in the sentence.
- For 'jij/je', use only the verb stem (no ending).
- With 'u', add '-t' to the verb or use the full verb form.
Exceptions and edge cases
- Some verbs are irregular, like 'zijn' which becomes 'Wees!'
- For 'hebben', use 'Heb!'