Dutch separable verbs are verbs that can be divided into two parts. In some cases, you have to separate the two parts of the separable verb in a sentence.
Some examples of Dutch separable verbs are:
opbellen
plaatsvinden
uitnodigen
toenemen
aankomen
voorkomen
The first part of the separable verb is known as the prefix;
opbellen
plaatsvinden
uitnodigen
toenemen
aankomen
voorkomen
The prefix (-op, -plaats, -uit, -toe, -aan, -voor) separates from the verb (-bellen, -vinden, -nodigen, -nemen, -komen) and generally stands in the end of the clause in the present and imperfect tenses.
The prefix usually stands in the last position of the sentence. Exceptions to the rule that prefixes usually stand in the last position are:
-A clause with a preposition can stand after the prefix
- A comparison with “dan” or “als” must stand after the prefix.
- A clause with “om+te+infinitief” comes after the prefix.
Three instances to SEPARATE a separable verb;
When the separable verb functions as the direct verb (persoonsvorm) of the main clause, you separate. The direct verb (persoonsvorm) is the conjugated verb that coincides with the subject of the main clause.
When the separable verb functions as a participle (deelwoord). A participle (deelwoord) is a form of verb that may function as an adjective or noun, you separate. When combined with a form of auxiliary verbs (hulpwerkwoord), such as hebben (to have) or zijn (to be), the participles form certain tenses of the verb.
When the separable verb functions as an infinitive (infinitief) with a “to” (te), you separate.
Two exceptions where you DO NOT separate a separable verb;
Exception 1
-When the separable verb functions as an infinitive (infinitief) without a “to” (to), you DO NOT separate the separable verb.
-When the separable verb functions as a direct verb (persoonsvorm) in a subordinating clause (bijzin), you DO NOT separate the separable verb.
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Hey, I found this blog from a google search of “speak dutch in hour” I think. It might have been “learn dutch in day” something like that… anyway, you have a beautiful website! I think you’re a bit further ahead in the dutch language than I am (absolute beginner) but I’m very excited to use your website more in a couple of weeks. Also, I notice you use a lot of sample sentences to break down parts of speech – I think a literal translation might illuminate a little better some of the more complex rules, but like I said I’m just a beginner, and may simply be a matter of my not being familiar enough with the language yet. Keep up the good work!