Use omdat (because) to explain why something happens.
| because (subordinating) | omdat |
Verb-Final Word Order
Like dat, omdat is a subordinating conjunction. This means it kicks the conjugated verb to the very end of its clause.
| We are too late because there is a traffic jam. | Wij zijn te laat omdat er een file is. |
Notice how the verb is moves to the end of the sentence, after een file (a traffic jam). You will frequently use this structure to explain why you are running late!
| Are you late because you are in a traffic jam? | Kom je te laat omdat je in de file staat? |
| He is taking the bus because the train is delayed. | Hij neemt de bus omdat de trein vertraging heeft. |
Bad Luck and Breakdowns
The Dutch use the word pech to describe bad luck, trouble, or a mechanical breakdown.
| the bad luck | de pech |
If you have a flat tire or a similar issue, omdat helps you explain the situation.
| I have bad luck because my tire is flat. | Ik heb pech omdat mijn band lek is. |
Even with negative words like niet, the verb remains firmly at the end of the omdat clause.
| I am taking the bike because the car won't start. | Ik pak de fiets omdat de auto niet start. |
| I am late today because the traffic is busy. | Ik ben vandaag laat omdat het verkeer druk is. |
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