Dutch subjunctive (aanvoegende wijs)

In this chapter you will learn about the Dutch subjunctive. It is not used very often in the current Dutch language, but it is a archaic form of language use.

Lesson outline

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1.Definition and usage of the Dutch subjunctive
2.Fixed expressions that require the subjunctive
3.Exercises
3.1.Exercise Dutch subjunctive 1
3.2.Exercise Dutch subjunctive 2

Definition and usage of the Dutch subjunctive

The 'aanvoegende wijs' or the 'conjunctive' in Dutch is the subjunctive in English. This verb form expresses a wish (wens), concession (toegeving), direction (aanwijzing) or an encouragement (aansporing). In the modern Dutch language this verb form is mostly used in fixed expressions.

Situation	Example	Translation
Wish	God zij met ons.	God be with us.
Concession	Hoe het ook zij, ze gaat naar school.	However it may be, she is going to school.
Direction	Men neme een ei om deze vervolgens te bakken.	You take an egg to then bake it.
Encouragement	Voor meer informatie, wende men zich tot het hoofdkantoor.	For more information, turn to the main office.

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Fixed expressions that require the subjunctive

These fixed expressions are mostly used in the present tense with the singular form of 'hij, zij, het'. Only the verb 'zijn' (to be) can have a subjunctive in the past tense. The rule to form this tense is:

Infinitive minus 'n'

The table below shows the fixed expressions.

Example	Translation
Kome wat komen zal.	What will happen, will happen.
Koste wat het kost.	At all costs. / No matter what.
Redde wie zich redden kan.	Drastic times call for drastic measures, so safe yourself first.
Leve de koning!	Long live the king!
Het ga je goed.	Best wishes.