Learn Hardcore Dutch: Je lichaam beschermen tegen de felle zon is ook belangrijk, dus vergeet geen zonnebrandcrème. - Protecting your body from the bright sun is also important, so don’t forget sunscreen.

It functions as the subject of the sentence and means "to protect your body against the bright sun." In Dutch, using an entire infinitive phrase as the subject is common when emphasizing an action or habit that is important.

Why is the adjective form "felle" used with "zon" instead of a simpler form like "fel"?

In Dutch, adjectives preceding a noun that is accompanied by a definite article (here, “de” in "de felle zon") or a possessive pronoun must take the –e ending. Since "zon" is a common gender noun in this context, "fel" becomes "felle," meaning "bright" or "intense."

What does the conjunction "dus" indicate in this sentence?

"Dus" serves as a coordinating conjunction meaning "so" or "therefore." It connects the first part of the sentence—which states that protecting your body from the bright sun is important—with the advice in the second part, telling you not to forget sunscreen.

How should the imperative phrase "vergeet geen zonnebrandcrème" be understood?

The phrase is an imperative command that means "do not forget sunscreen." Here, "vergeet" is the imperative form of "forget," and the use of "geen" negates the noun "zonnebrandcrème," indicating that you shouldn’t leave it out of your routine when protecting yourself from the sun.

Why is "geen" used before "zonnebrandcrème" instead of "niet"?

In Dutch, when negating a noun (especially an indefinite one or one without a specific reference), "geen" is used rather than "niet." Since "zonnebrandcrème" is a noun and the sentence instructs you not to forget any sunscreen, "geen" is the correct choice.

Is "zonnebrandcrème" a compound word, and what does it reveal about the meaning?

Yes, "zonnebrandcrème" is a compound word formed by combining "zon" (sun) and "brandcrème" (burn cream). Literally, it translates to "sun burn cream," which is the Dutch word for sunscreen.

What function does the preposition "tegen" serve in the phrase "tegen de felle zon"?

The preposition "tegen" means "against" and indicates the object of protection. In this case, it shows that the action of protecting your body is directed against the bright sun, emphasizing the idea of shielding yourself from its harmful effects.