Breakdown of In de gang links aanhouden.
in
in
de gang
the hallway
aanhouden
to keep (to)
links
left / on the left
Questions & Answers about In de gang links aanhouden.
Why is the verb aanhouden in the full infinitive form instead of the command form like 'houd aan'?
This is an impersonal command. In Dutch, public signs, rules, and general instructions often use the full verb (the infinitive) instead of a direct command. It sounds neutral and applies to anyone reading it, rather than speaking to you personally.
If this is an instruction, why is the verb placed all the way at the end of the sentence?
When you use an infinitive as an impersonal command, the verb always goes at the very end of the sentence. Any details about where (in de gang) and how (links) must come before the action.
I usually see 'houden' for 'to keep'. Why is the verb 'aanhouden' used here?
While houden is the general word for 'to keep' or 'to hold', the verb aanhouden is specifically used in traffic, walking, and navigation to mean 'to keep to' a certain side or direction.
Does the word 'gang' just mean hallway?
Yes, in a building, de gang means the hallway or corridor. You will also hear it used for an aisle in a supermarket, or a course in a multi-course dinner.
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