Questions & Answers about Mits de steiger veilig is, kunnen we bouwen.
What exactly does mits mean, and how does it differ from als?
Mits means 'provided that' or 'on the condition that'. It is more restrictive and formal than als (if), as it makes the condition an absolute requirement. Be careful not to confuse it with tenzij, which means 'unless' and is often learned around the same time.
Why is the word order kunnen we instead of we kunnen?
The sentence starts with a subordinate clause (Mits de steiger veilig is). This entire clause occupies the first position in the sentence. To satisfy the verb-second (V2) rule of Dutch main clauses, the finite verb kunnen must immediately follow it, causing an inversion of the subject (we) and the verb.
How would we apply the lesson's target prefix her- to say 'we can rebuild'?
You would use the verb herbouwen. The prefix her- indicates repetition, much like 're-' in English. Because verbs starting with her- are inseparable, you never separate the prefix from the verb, and the past participle doesn't get a ge- (e.g., Wij hebben herbouwd).
Can we use the prefix ont- from this lesson to make ontbouwen (to un-build or demolish)?