Learn Hardcore Dutch: Ik denk dat dit verhaal heel goed is. - I think that this story is very good.

In Dutch, dat is often used as a conjunction to introduce a subordinate clause. In this case, “Ik denk dat…” means “I think that…”, and it’s followed by the clause “dit verhaal heel goed is”. This structure is very common in Dutch and places the verb at the end of the clause.

Why does the verb is appear at the end of the sentence “dit verhaal heel goed is”?

In Dutch subordinate clauses (clauses introduced by conjunctions like dat, weil, omdat, etc.), the finite verb typically goes to the end of the clause. That’s why we have “dit verhaal heel goed is” instead of “dit verhaal is heel goed” in this subordinate clause.

How does heel compare to other intensifiers like erg or zeer?

All three words (heel, erg, and zeer) can mean “very” in English. Heel is the most common and casual choice, erg can sound a bit stronger and can sometimes mean “really”, while zeer is more formal or literary. In casual conversation, heel goed is what you’ll hear most often.

Could we say “Ik vind dat dit verhaal heel goed is” instead?

Yes, you could. Ik vind dat… is similar to Ik denk dat… but carries more the sense of “I find” or “I feel”. Ik denk dat… is more about reasoning or believing, while Ik vind dat… focuses on your personal opinion.

What is the best way to pronounce “verhaal”?

Dutch v is pronounced as an f or slightly softer, between an f and an English v. The r may be rolled or tapped depending on the dialect. The aa sound in verhaal is a long ah sound. So it’s something like [f(e)r-HAHL] or [v(e)r-HAHL], depending on your accent.