The Verb-Second Rule (V2)
Dutch is a "verb-second" (V2) language. In a main clause, the conjugated verb is always the second structural element. If you start a sentence with an adverb, the verb must remain in the second position. This pushes the subject into the third position, swapping places with the verb. This subject-verb swap is called inversion.
Reason Adverbs
When explaining rules or giving reasons, you will often start a clause with daarom (therefore / that is why). Notice how the verb comes immediately after daarom, followed by the subject.
| That is why it is now your turn. | Daarom is het nu jouw beurt. |
This rule also applies when joining clauses. The second clause establishes its own word order, placing the verb right after the adverb.
| It is your turn, therefore you must roll the die. | Het is jouw beurt, daarom moet je de dobbelsteen gooien. |
Sequence Adverbs
When explaining a sequence of events—like the turns in a board game—you will frequently use adverbs like daarna (after that) and dan (then). Placing these at the start of a sentence triggers inversion.
| After that you move the pawn to the next village. | Daarna verplaats je de pion naar het volgende dorp. |
| Then you draw a card from the pile. | Dan trek je een kaart van de stapel. |
Subject Variety
Inversion happens regardless of the subject. Whether it is a pronoun like je (you) or a noun like de tegenstander (the opponent), it always slides into the third position directly behind the verb.
| Then it is the opponent's turn. | Dan is de tegenstander aan de beurt. |
| Then the opponent draws something fun from the pile. | Dan trekt de tegenstander iets leuks van de stapel. |
