Lesson nr. 4

Present tense in Dutch

The verb is the component of the phrase that describes the subject's actions, changes, conditions, or mental states, as well as what occurs to it and where it goes.

Four situations call for the usage of simple present tense:

1. to speak of an instantaneous event that takes place at the exact same time that we are discussing it.
2. to describe a continuing, recurring, or routine activity or state
3. to describe an upcoming event (in combination with an adverb of time)
4. to speak about a potential "if - then" scenario

Dutch verbs only end with -EN (ex; Werken) or -N (ex; Zijn)

EASY!

Present

Onvoltooid tegenwoordige tijd [o t t]

1. Current action

The simple tense is used to describe a fleeting event that takes place at the same time as the subject of the sentence. I glance at the picture while mentioning it if I say, "I look at the painting." We can (and frequently do) substitute the continuous for the simple present tense by saying, "I am looking at the picture."

2. Persistent, recurring, or habitual activity or state

The state or activity is unrelated to the instant we are discussing it.

3. Upcoming activities or events in the future

The Dutch frequently employ the simple present, even though we do have a future tense to allude to future actions or events. The speaker makes a reference to the future by using an adverb of time (tomorrow, next week).

4. If - then statements.

The Dutch are completely content with using the simple present when the English will use the auxiliary verb after a "if clause." You can also use the Dutch word for "will" (zullen; see future tense), but the sentence will sound stiff if you do.