Learn Hardcore Dutch: De realiteit is anders dan wij denken.

It translates to “Reality is different than we think.” The sentence implies that the true nature of reality does not match our assumptions or beliefs.

How does the comparative phrase anders dan function in this sentence?

In this context, anders means different, and dan functions like than in English comparisons. Together, they express that reality deviates from what we assume—it establishes the basis for comparing our thoughts with actual reality.

Why is the pronoun wij used here instead of the more informal we?

Although both wij and we mean “we,” wij is the emphatic form. Its use here stresses the subject, emphasizing that it’s specifically we (as opposed to someone else) who hold these thoughts, thereby giving extra weight to the contrast between our beliefs and reality.

What is the role of the definite article de before realiteit?

In Dutch, nouns typically require a definite article when referring to a specific or commonly understood concept. Here, de realiteit is used much like “the reality” in English, signaling that the sentence discusses a particular, well-defined notion of reality.

Is the sentence structure similar to English, and how does that help in understanding it?

Yes, the structure is very similar to English. The sentence follows a subject-verb-complement pattern: De realiteit (subject), is (verb), and anders dan wij denken (comparative complement). This familiar construction—comparable to “Reality is different than we think”—can make it easier for English speakers to grasp Dutch sentence formation.

What type of clause is “dan wij denken,” and what role does it play?

“Dan wij denken” is a comparative clause that provides the standard for comparison. It functions similarly to the English phrase “than we think,” specifying that our current thoughts or perceptions are being compared with reality.