Breakdown of Al is de wind hevig, we trotseren de kou op de top.
zijn
to be
op
on
de wind
the wind
we
we (unstressed form of wij)
Questions & Answers about Al is de wind hevig, we trotseren de kou op de top.
Why does the sentence start with Al is instead of Al de wind is?
In this specific grammar structure, starting with al followed immediately by the verb (inversion) creates a concessive clause meaning "even if" or "even though". So, Al is de wind hevig means "Even if the wind is fierce".
Wait, why is it we trotseren? Shouldn't the main clause invert to trotseren we after the comma?
You have spotted a major exception in Dutch grammar! Normally, a subordinate clause at the start of a sentence forces the main verb to come right after the comma. However, clauses starting with al + inversion do not trigger inversion in the main clause. The main clause just continues with standard Subject-Verb order (we trotseren).
How would this sentence look if I used hoewel (although) instead of al?
Because hoewel follows standard grammar rules, it sends the verb to the end of its own clause and triggers inversion in the main clause. It would become: Hoewel de wind hevig is, trotseren we de kou.
Does the verb trotseren have anything to do with the word trots (proud)?
Yes! It literally comes from the idea of facing a challenge with pride or boldness. In Dutch, trotseren means "to brave", "to defy", or "to stand up to".
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