Learn Hardcore Dutch: Ik schenk een klein kopje koffie in voor u, zodat u niet dorstig blijft. - I pour a small cup of coffee for you, so that you don’t remain thirsty.

Dutch has many separable verbs. In this sentence, the verb is “inschenken” (to pour or serve). When conjugated, the separable prefix “in” is moved to the end of the clause. So “Ik schenk … in” means “I pour … in,” a structure that is common in Dutch.

How should we interpret “een klein kopje koffie” in this context?

This phrase literally means “a small cup of coffee.” The noun “kopje” is a diminutive of “kop,” which not only indicates a small cup in size but can also convey a friendly or modest tone. The adjective “klein” (small) reinforces this idea.

Why is “voor u” used, and what does it indicate about the level of formality?

“Voor u” translates as “for you.” The pronoun “u” is the formal form of “you” in Dutch, used to show respect. Its use here suggests that the speaker is addressing someone in a polite or formal manner, rather than using the informal “je.”

What purpose does the clause “zodat u niet dorstig blijft” serve in the sentence?

This clause explains the reason behind serving the coffee. “Zodat” means “so that” or “in order that.” The phrase “u niet dorstig blijft” translates as “you do not remain thirsty.” Together, they clarify that the coffee is being served with the purpose of preventing thirst.

How does the word order in this sentence differ from typical English constructions?

There are two key differences. First, due to the separable verb “inschenken,” the prefix “in” appears at the end of the sentence rather than being attached to the verb as in English. Second, the subordinate clause introduced by “zodat” has its conjugated verb “blijft” at the end, which is a common word order in Dutch but differs from the more fixed word order in English subordinate clauses.