Breakdown of Het afval alstublieft in deze bak deponeren.
in
in
alstublieft
please
deze
this / these
het afval
the waste
de bak
the bin
deponeren
to deposit
Questions & Answers about Het afval alstublieft in deze bak deponeren.
Why use the full verb deponeren instead of the normal command form deponeer?
This sentence uses an impersonal imperative. In Dutch, public signs and official instructions often use the full infinitive rather than a direct command. It sounds more objective and applies to anyone reading the sign, rather than addressing you directly.
Why is the verb deponeren at the very end of the sentence?
When you use an infinitive to give a command, the verb goes to the very end of the sentence. If you used the regular direct command, the verb would come first: Deponeer het afval in deze bak.
Why isn't alstublieft placed at the end of the sentence here?
In a standard request, you might put alstublieft at the very end. However, because this is an infinitive command, the verb deponeren must be the absolute last word. Therefore, alstublieft is tucked into the middle of the sentence, right after the object het afval.
Is deponeren a common word for throwing away trash?
It is very common on official signs and packaging, but it is too formal for everyday conversation. It means to deposit or to dispose of. If you were talking to a friend, you would use a standard verb like gooien (to throw) and say Gooi het afval in deze bak.
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