Ik moet morgen vroeg opstaan.
English: I have to get up early tomorrow.
- Language
- Dutch
- Level
- B2
- Unit
- Werkwoordstijden en modale constructies
- Practice types
- 0
What this grammar point covers
In Dutch, a modal infinitive is when you use a modal verb (such as kunnen, moeten, mogen, willen, zullen, laten, hoeven, durven) together with another verb in the infinitive form. This is common in sentences where one verb expresses possibility, necessity, permission, or intention, and the second verb shows the main action.
When to use it
Use modal infinitives in Dutch to talk about abilities, obligations, permissions, wishes, or possibilities. They are also used when expressing that something does not need to happen (with 'hoeven').
Key forms
- modal verb (conjugated) + infinitive
- Example: Ik kan zwemmen.
- Example: Je moet werken.
Examples
Jij mag hier niet parkeren.
English: You are not allowed to park here.
We kunnen samen koken.
English: We can cook together.
Zij wil Nederlands leren.
English: She wants to learn Dutch.
Je hoeft niet te komen.
English: You don't have to come.
Tips
- The infinitive always comes at the end of the clause in main sentences.
- With 'hoeven', always use 'te' before the infinitive (for example: 'Je hoeft niet te gaan').
- Do not use 'te' after most modal verbs (kunnen, moeten, mogen, willen, zullen, laten, durven).
Exceptions and edge cases
- With 'hoeven', you must use 'te' before the infinitive.
- In subordinate clauses, both the modal verb and the infinitive go to the end.