What is the Infinitive?

The infinitive is the base form of a verb. In English, this is often shown with ‘to’ (to speak, to eat). In Dutch, the infinitive does not use ‘to’ but just the verb itself.

Examples of Infinitives

• lopen (to walk)
• eten (to eat)
• leiden (to lead)
• zingen (to sing)

Using the Infinitive in Sentences

We use the infinitive in different ways:

• As part of a verb phrase: Ik wil leren. (I want to learn.)
• After certain verbs: Hij begint te lopen. (He starts to walk.)
• In commands: Ga eten! (Go eat!)

Important Points

• The infinitive form usually ends with -en.
• It is not conjugated, meaning it does not change according to the subject.