Finally, we compare the various meanings of the modal verbs. The only Dutch learners who don’t have problems with this are the Germans because German sentence structure is similar to Dutch. In a lot of Dutch sentences, the help verb and its main verb are not even next to each other in the sentence. “We start with word formation and deal with any exceptions to the rule. We explain everything step by step to our beginners. “We don’t inundate our course members with theory, but try to explain the rules by giving them practical examples that they can use when they’re no longer at the institute.” Structure of Dutch sentences “It’s a tricky area”, explains Dutch language trainer, Ilja Soons.

The modal verbs are so important in Dutch that beginner course members at Regina Coeli are already confronted with them on Day 4 of their language course. Explain rules by giving practical examples However, it’s a different matter for people learning how to speak Dutch. For those who have grown up with the Dutch language, this is nothing new. In Dutch as well as in other languages, the six help verbs (otherwise known as modal verbs) add something to the meaning of the main verb. Six simple sentences in Dutch with the main verb ‘work’ and yet they all mean something completely different. Ik hoef niet te werken (I needn’t work/I don’t have to work). Online training options at Regina Coeli.Online language boost for secondary school students.Language boost weekend for secondary school students.

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