The Imperative

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To form the imperative (commands) in Dutch, you simply use the stem of the verb. The stem is the infinitive minus the -en ending (adjusted for spelling). This form is used for both singular and plural 'you' in modern Dutch.

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The imperative is used to give orders, instructions, or advice. It is direct and usually starts the sentence. In A1 Dutch, it is the most common way to tell someone what to do.

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When being very formal or polite, you can add 'u' after the verb stem. Sometimes a -t is added to the stem (Stem+t + u), though modern Dutch often just uses the stem followed by 'u'.

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The imperative can sound harsh. Adding 'even' (just/for a moment) makes the request sound friendlier and less like a strict order.

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Adding 'maar' to an imperative suggests encouragement or permission. It translates roughly to 'just go ahead and...'

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The word 'eens' (once/sometime) is used to make a command sound like a casual suggestion or a friendly request.

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The verb 'zijn' (to be) is irregular in the imperative. Instead of the stem 'ben', we use 'wees'.

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To tell someone NOT to do something, use the stem followed by 'niet'. The word 'niet' usually comes after the verb and any direct objects.

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In the imperative, separable verbs split. The prefix (the small preposition-like part) moves to the very end of the sentence.

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The imperative 'Kom' is often followed by another verb in the infinitive to invite someone to join an activity.

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Similar to 'kom', the imperative 'Ga' is used with an infinitive to tell someone to go and perform an action elsewhere.

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To make any imperative polite, add 'alsjeblieft' (informal) or 'alstublieft' (formal). It can be placed at the beginning or the end of the sentence.