Learn Dutch: Ik roep je zodra ik de borden klaarzet. - I will call you as soon as I set out the plates.

Klaarzetten (to set out) is a separable verb. In a normal main clause, it splits into two parts (like Ik zet de borden klaar). However, zodra introduces a subordinate clause, which pushes the verb to the end of the sentence. When a separable verb sits at the end of a subordinate clause, its parts are reunited and written as one single word: klaarzet.

Does zodra always push the verb to the end?

Yes. Zodra (as soon as) is a subordinating conjunction, just like omdat (because) or als (if). It creates a subordinate clause, meaning the conjugated verb must go to the very end of that specific clause.

Why does the Dutch sentence use Ik roep instead of a future tense like Ik zal roepen?

In Dutch, it is very common to use the present tense to talk about the future, as long as the context makes it clear. Because zodra implies an action that hasn't happened yet, the present tense roep sounds perfectly natural for 'will call'.

What does the klaar part of klaarzetten mean?

The word klaar means 'ready'. The verb zetten means 'to put' or 'to set'. So, klaarzetten literally means 'to put ready' — which describes perfectly what you do when you prepare the table and set out plates for a meal.