Dutch Sentence Structure: A Simple Guide for Beginners

One of the first challenges new learners face is understanding Dutch sentence structure. The word order can feel confusing at first, especially when it doesn’t follow the same logic as English. But with a few clear rules, you’ll get the hang of it quickly.

1. The Basic Sentence Order (SVO)

In a simple sentence, Dutch follows the Subject-Verb-Object structure—just like English.

Ik lees een boek. – I read a book.

Hij eet een appel. – He eats an apple.

This structure is your foundation for building confidence in speaking and writing.

2. Verb Goes to the End in Subordinate Clauses

When you use a word like "omdat" (because), "dat" (that), or "als" (if), the verb goes to the end of the sentence:

Ik blijf thuis omdat ik ziek ben. – I stay home because I am sick.

Ze zegt dat hij komt. – She says that he is coming.

This is a key rule that makes your Dutch sound more natural.

3. Question Structure Can Be Inverted

To ask questions, Dutch often uses inversion. That means the verb comes before the subject:

Heb je honger? – Are you hungry?

Gaat hij naar school? – Is he going to school?