Learn Hardcore Dutch: Overleg even met je collega over de energiebesparing en schrijf de ideeën op. - Discuss briefly with your colleague about the energy saving, and write down the ideas.

It instructs the listener to quickly consult or discuss something with their colleague. Overleg is the imperative form of “overleggen” (to consult or discuss), and even adds a casual nuance, suggesting the conversation should be brief.

What role does the word even play in this sentence?

Even is used as a softening adverb that implies “just” or “briefly.” While it doesn’t have a direct one-word translation in English, it makes the command less abrupt and suggests that the action should be done in a short or informal manner.

Why is energiebesparing written as one word, and what does it mean?

In Dutch, compound nouns are commonly formed by combining two words. Energiebesparing merges energie (energy) and besparing (saving or conservation) to mean “energy saving” or “energy conservation.”

How does the separable verb structure work in schrijf de ideeën op?

The verb comes from opschrijven (“to write down”). In the imperative form, Dutch separates the prefix from the main verb: schrijf is used first, and the separable prefix op is placed at the end of the sentence. This is a common pattern in Dutch for separable verbs.

What is the overall structure or mood of the sentence?

Both overleg and schrijf are in the imperative mood, which provides a direct command. The sentence first instructs the listener to consult with a colleague regarding energy saving and then to write down any ideas that arise.

Why is the word ideeën written with two dots (diaeresis) over the e’s?

The diaeresis in ideeën signals that the vowels should be pronounced in separate syllables rather than as a single sound. This helps to avoid mispronunciation and clarifies that the word is the plural form of idee.