Breakdown of Gebruik je zakdoek regelmatig zodat je niemand besmet als je verkouden bent.
zijn
to be
zodat
so that
als
if
je
you
gebruiken
to use
regelmatig
regularly
je
your
niemand
no one
de zakdoek
the handkerchief
verkouden
cold
besmetten
to infect
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Questions & Answers about Gebruik je zakdoek regelmatig zodat je niemand besmet als je verkouden bent.
What does zakdoek mean in this sentence?
Zakdoek translates to handkerchief. It refers to a small cloth used for personal hygiene, generally carried in one’s pocket.
How is the imperative used in the phrase "Gebruik je zakdoek"?
In this sentence, gebruik is the imperative form of gebruiken (to use). The command is directed at the listener, and in Dutch imperatives the subject (you) is implied, much like in English commands such as “Use your handkerchief.”
What does regelmatig mean, and why is it placed where it is?
Regelmatig means regularly. It is an adverb modifying the action, and in Dutch, adverbs often follow the object. Here it clarifies that you should use your handkerchief on a regular basis.
What is the function of the word zodat in this sentence?
Zodat means so that. It introduces a purpose clause, explaining the reason behind the instruction—namely, to ensure that you do not infect anyone.
Why is the verb bent positioned at the end of the clause "als je verkouden bent"?
In Dutch subordinate clauses introduced by words like als (if), the finite verb is typically moved to the end. That’s why bent appears after the rest of the clause rather than immediately after the subject.
What does verkouden mean in this context?
Verkouden is an adjective that describes someone who has a cold. In this sentence, it indicates the condition under which the advice applies—if you’re experiencing cold symptoms, you should take precautions.
Why isn’t there a comma before zodat—is that acceptable in Dutch?
While traditional Dutch punctuation often calls for a comma before subordinate clauses introduced by conjunctions like zodat, modern usage can omit it, especially in shorter sentences where the meaning remains clear. This sentence follows that more streamlined style.