Separable Verbs with Auxiliary Verbs
Separable verbs split when they are the main conjugated verb in a sentence. However, when you use an auxiliary verb—such as a modal (moeten, willen, kunnen) or the future auxiliary zullen—the auxiliary is conjugated in the second position, and the separable verb moves to the very end of the sentence.
Because the separable verb is in its full infinitive form, it does not separate.
| We must prepare the text. | We moeten de tekst voorbereiden. |
| I want to finish the project quickly. | Ik wil het project snel afmaken. |
Questions and the Future Tense
This rule applies to statements, questions, and the future tense with zullen. Even if the sentence structure changes—such as moving the auxiliary verb to the front for a question—the separable verb stays together at the end.
| Will you pass on the information? | Zult u de informatie doorgeven? |
| Do I have to turn off the light now? | Moet ik het licht nu uitdoen? |
Adding Details
Any extra details you add to the sentence—such as time phrases, objects, or adverbs—sit between the conjugated auxiliary verb and the full separable verb at the end.
| In the morning, she will prepare the meeting. | 's Morgens zal ze de vergadering voorbereiden. |
| You have to put on this coat. | Je moet deze jas aantrekken. |
