Abstract noun plurals (-heden)

The plural suffix -heden

Many Dutch abstract nouns end in the suffix -heid, often equivalent to English endings like -ity (as in responsibility) or -ness (as in weakness).

To form the plural of a noun ending in -heid, replace the suffix with -heden.

We expect a few difficulties during this project.
Wij verwachten enkele moeilijkheden tijdens dit project.
There are many possibilities and opportunities to work together.
Er zijn veel mogelijkheden en gelegenheden om samen te werken.

Notice how moeilijkheid (difficulty) becomes moeilijkheden (difficulties) and gelegenheid (opportunity) becomes gelegenheden (opportunities).

This pattern applies consistently to all nouns ending in -heid, regardless of their length.

You must share these responsibilities.
Jullie moeten deze verantwoordelijkheden delen.
He wants to know the details of the situation.
Hij wil de bijzonderheden van de situatie weten.

Contributors