Understanding Negative Sentences in Dutch
In Dutch, just like in English, we sometimes want to say that something is not happening or that something is not true. These are called negative sentences. Let's learn how to make sentences negative in Dutch.
Using 'niet' to Make Sentences Negative
The word 'niet' is used in Dutch to say 'not'. It helps us turn a positive sentence into a negative one.
Examples
- Ik eet niet graag vis.
- Hij is niet blij.
- Wij gaan niet naar school.
Where to Place 'niet' in a Sentence
The placement of 'niet' depends on what you want to negate. It usually comes after the verb, but before the part of the sentence you want to negate.
Examples
- Ik zie de film niet.
- Zij speelt niet in de tuin.
- Jullie hebben het boek niet gelezen.
Important Points
- 'Niet' usually comes after the verb.
- 'Niet' can come before the adjective or adverb you want to negate.
'Geen' is used when you want to say 'no' or 'none' for nouns. It is used when you are talking about something in general or when there is no specific quantity.
Examples
- Ik heb geen hond.
- Zij drinkt geen melk.
- Er is geen probleem.
When to Use 'niet' or 'geen'
Use 'niet' when you want to negate verbs, adjectives, or adverbs. Use 'geen' when you want to negate nouns.
Examples
- Het is niet koud.
- Zij heeft geen geld.
- Wij lopen niet snel.
Important Points
- 'Niet' is for verbs, adjectives, and adverbs.
- 'Geen' is for nouns.