Understanding Prefixes in Dutch Verbs

In Dutch, many verbs start with special prefixes. These prefixes can change the meaning of the verb. The common prefixes are: be-, ge-, ver-, and ont-.

1. The prefix be-

This prefix can often mean that you are doing something to someone or something. It can also indicate a change of state.

  • beantwoorden (to answer)
  • beschrijven (to describe)
  • begroeten (to greet)

2. The prefix ge-

This prefix is often used in the past tense. It indicates that an action has been completed.

  • gezien (seen)
  • gemaakt (made)
  • verteld (told)

3. The prefix ver-

This prefix often means that something is lost or gone, or that an action has gone too far.

  • verliezen (to lose)
  • vergeten (to forget)
  • veranderen (to change)

4. The prefix ont-

This prefix often means that something is taken away or not there anymore. It can indicate the opposite of something.

  • ontdoen (to undo)
  • ontvangen (to receive)
  • ontsnappen (to escape)

Practice Makes Perfect

Try to use these verbs in sentences to get more comfortable with them!

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