Learn Hardcore Dutch: Ik geef mijn moeder een klein cadeautje voor haar verjaardag. - I give my mother a small gift for her birthday.

The sentence follows a typical Dutch word order: Subject ("Ik") – Verb ("geef") – Indirect Object ("mijn moeder") – Direct Object ("een klein cadeautje") – Prepositional Phrase ("voor haar verjaardag"). This structure shows that when two objects are involved, the indirect object usually comes before the direct object.

Why is the adjective klein placed before the noun cadeautje?

In Dutch, adjectives are positioned before the noun they describe. Thus, "een klein cadeautje" translates to "a small gift," with klein directly modifying cadeautje. This ordering is similar to that in other Germanic languages and is a standard adjective placement rule in Dutch.

What is the significance of the diminutive form cadeautje in this sentence?

The word "cadeautje" is the diminutive form of "cadeau", created by adding -je to the noun. This form often conveys not only a smaller physical size but can also add a tone of affection, informality, or endearment. In this context, it may imply that the gift is either physically small or meant to be perceived as a cute, thoughtful present.

How does the word order in Dutch compare to English when both an indirect and direct object are used?

Both Dutch and English typically place the indirect object before the direct object in sentences with ditransitive verbs. However, Dutch is stricter about this order. In the given sentence, "mijn moeder" (indirect object) comes directly before "een klein cadeautje" (direct object), a structure that English speakers will find familiar but must remember to apply consistently in Dutch.

What role does the prepositional phrase voor haar verjaardag play in the sentence?

The phrase "voor haar verjaardag" functions as an adverbial modifier, providing context for the action by specifying the occasion. It tells us that the gift is given for her birthday, thereby explaining the purpose or reason behind the act of giving.

Can the prepositional phrase voor haar verjaardag be moved to another position in the sentence, and what might be the effect?

While Dutch syntax allows for some flexibility, the most natural placement for time or purpose-related prepositional phrases is at the end of the sentence. Moving "voor haar verjaardag" might shift the emphasis or make the sentence sound less natural. Generally, to maintain clear and standard word order, it's best to keep it at the end.

Does the sentence structure change if a different indirect object is used?

The structure remains the same regardless of the specific indirect object. For example, if you say "Ik geef Jan een boek." (I give Jan a book), the order still is: Subject – Verb – Indirect Object – Direct Object. The same rules apply whether you are using a possessive phrase like "mijn moeder" or a proper name like "Jan".