Lesson 9 of 25
Separable verbs
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Scheidbare werkwoorden

Separable verbs

Daily routines and form-filling phrases on the Schrijven exam depend on scheidbare werkwoorden (separable verbs). Hand-graders use a strict rubric, and V2 (verb-second) word order is one of the first things they check. Separable verbs follow a placement rule you must memorise.

The Rule: In a standard main sentence, a separable verb splits into two pieces. The conjugated verb goes to position 2. The short prefix goes to the absolute end of the sentence.

Common A2 separable verbs and how they split:

  • invullen (to fill in) → Ik vul het formulier in.
  • opstaan (to get up) → Hij staat vroeg op.
  • meenemen (to bring along) → Wij nemen een cadeau mee.

The Exam Trap: Do not treat these like English verbs. Writing Ik invul het formulier or keeping the pieces together like Ik vul in het formulier will cost you points. Always push the small prefix to the very end before the full stop.

Key rule· 1 of 3
Split the verb and place the prefix at the end

The main part of the verb acts like a normal verb and sits in position 2. The prefix detaches and jumps to the end of your sentence.

Ik vul mijn gegevens in.I fill in my details.
Wij nemen de documenten mee.We bring the documents along.
Never keep the verb attached in a main clause

Many beginners write the verb exactly as it appears in the dictionary. You must always separate it in a main clause.

Hij staat vroeg op.He gets up early.
Do not put the prefix immediately after the verb

Another common deduction is putting the prefix immediately after the verb when there is still an object or time phrase in the sentence. The prefix must wait until the absolute end.

Ik maak het huis vandaag schoon.I am cleaning the house today.

Practice questions

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