The Suffix -schap
In Dutch, you can turn nouns or adjectives into abstract concepts by adding the suffix -schap. This suffix is a direct cousin of the English suffixes "-ship" (as in "friendship") and "-hood" (as in "brotherhood"). It is widely used to describe states of being, roles, and collective groups.
Civic Duties and Roles
You will frequently see -schap used to describe official or professional roles, as well as concepts related to society.
| There is a course on citizenship. | Er is een cursus over burgerschap. |
| We should promote active citizenship and good leadership. | We zouden actief burgerschap en goed leiderschap moeten bevorderen. |
| The ownership of this project is clear. | Het eigenaarschap van dit project is duidelijk. |
Relationships and Alliances
The suffix is also essential for describing interpersonal bonds and formal partnerships.
Grammar note: Nouns ending in -schap can take either de or het. While many are het words, several very common ones take de. Always learn the article together with the new word.
| Their long friendship is very special. | Hun lange vriendschap is heel bijzonder. |
| This partnership promises to be very successful. | Dit partnerschap belooft erg succesvol te worden. |
| The alliance is signed by the king. | Het bondgenootschap wordt door de koning ondertekend. |
Collectives, Kinship, and Emotions
Finally, -schap can represent a collective group of people, a sense of belonging, or an emotional state.
| I really enjoy your company. | Ik geniet erg van jouw gezelschap. |
| There is a clear kinship between these languages. | Er is een duidelijke verwantschap tussen deze talen. |
| The group forms a strong brotherhood. | De groep vormt een sterke broederschap. |
| She cried of joy when she read the letter. | Ze huilde van blijdschap toen ze de brief las. |
