The imperative (commands & requests)

Forming the imperative

The Dutch imperative is simply the stem of the verb (the ik-form). No pronoun, no ending:

The same form is used whether you are talking to one person or several:

• Kom binnen, jongens! — Come in, guys!
• Doe de deur dicht. — Close the door.

Polite imperative with u

When addressing someone formally, you can add u after the verb. In this case the verb takes a -t:

• Komt u binnen. — Please come in. (formal)
• Gaat u zitten. — Please take a seat. (formal)

Softening a command: polite requests

A bare imperative can sound blunt. Dutch speakers soften requests in several ways:

1. Add even, maar, or alsjeblieft: Wacht even. — Just wait a moment. / Kom maar binnen. — Do come in.
2. Use a question with kunt u or kun je: Kunt u dat herhalen? — Could you repeat that? (formal) / Kun je me helpen? — Can you help me?
3. Use zou je willen or zou u willen + infinitive for the politest option: Zou je het raam willen openen? — Would you mind opening the window? / Zou u even willen wachten? — Would you please wait a moment?

Suggestions with laten we

To suggest doing something together ("let's ..."), use laten we + infinitive at the end:

• Laten we gaan! — Let's go!
• Laten we vanavond samen eten. — Let's eat together tonight.
• Laten we een pauze nemen. — Let's take a break.

Negative commands

Put niet or geen after the verb (or before the noun):

• Kom niet te laat! — Don't be late!
• Maak je geen zorgen. — Don't worry.