Learn Hardcore Dutch: Fietsen is handig.

In this context, fietsen refers to the activity of cycling or bicycling. Although it is originally a verb meaning “to cycle,” here it is used as a noun (a nominalized infinitive) to represent the activity as a whole.

Why is fietsen capitalized even though it comes from a verb?

In Dutch, when an infinitive is used as a noun, it is capitalized. Since fietsen functions as the subject of the sentence (referring to the activity of cycling), it is written with a capital letter.

What does the adjective handig mean in this sentence?

The word handig means “convenient” or “useful.” In this sentence, it indicates that cycling is considered a practical or advantageous activity.

Why does the sentence use the singular verb is even though fietsen might seem plural?

Even though fietsen could imply multiple bikes or instances of cycling, here it represents a single concept—the activity of cycling. This is why the sentence uses the singular verb is, similar to how English treats gerunds (e.g., “Cycling is fun”).

Is it common in Dutch to use a nominalized infinitive as the subject of a sentence?

Yes, it is quite common in Dutch. Many actions are described by turning the infinitive into a noun. This construction is similar to using a gerund in English, where the activity (like cycling) is treated as a single idea or concept.