Questions & Answers about De machine werkt goed.
Why is de used instead of het in the sentence?
In Dutch, every noun is assigned a gender and comes with either the article de or het. The word machine is a common gender noun, so it takes the article de. Unlike English, which uses only the, Dutch requires you to choose the correct gender-specific article.
How is the verb werkt formed from the base verb and what does it mean?
Werkt is the third-person singular present tense form of the verb werken, which means to work. In Dutch, regular verbs add a -t ending for the third-person singular form when used with singular subjects, much like how English verbs add -s (as in "works").
What role does the word goed play and why is it positioned at the end?
Goed is an adverb modifying the verb werkt. It means well and describes how the machine works. In simple Dutch sentences, adverbs like goed typically follow the verb, which is similar to English ("The machine works well").
Does the sentence "De machine werkt goed" follow the same word order as English, and are there any differences?
Yes, the sentence follows a Subject-Verb-Adverb structure, which is similar to English ("The machine works well"). However, it's important to note that while simple sentences can mirror English word order, more complex Dutch sentences may have variations, especially in subordinate clauses.
What are the grammatical roles of each word in the sentence?
- De: Definite article for a common gender noun.
- Machine: Noun referring to a mechanical device.
- Werkt: Conjugated verb (third-person singular) meaning "works."
- Goed: Adverb meaning "well," modifying the verb.
AI Language TutorTry it ↗
“What's the best way to learn Dutch grammar?”
Dutch grammar becomes intuitive with practice. Focus on understanding the core patterns first — how sentences are structured, how verbs change form, and how words relate to each other. Our course breaks these concepts into small lessons so you can build understanding step by step.
Sign up free — start using our AI language tutor
Start learning DutchMaster Dutch — from De machine werkt goed to fluency
All course content and exercises are completely free — no paywalls, no trial periods.
- ✓ Infinitely deep — unlimited vocabulary and grammar
- ✓ Fast-paced — build complex sentences from the start
- ✓ Unforgettable — efficient spaced repetition system
- ✓ AI tutor to answer your grammar questions