Basic Rules for Dutch Articles

In Dutch, there are two definite articles: "de" and "het". Unlike English which only has "the",

Dutch requires you to learn which article goes with which noun.

Here are some basic rules to help you:

1. "De" is used for:

- Masculine and feminine nouns

- Plural nouns (all plurals use "de")

- Many professions and people

2. "Het" is used for:

- Neuter nouns

- Diminutives (words ending with -je, -tje, -pje)

- Verbs used as nouns

- Languages and sports

- Many words ending in -isme, -ment

Unfortunately, there are many exceptions, so practice is essential!

Examples

WordArticleTranslation
mandeman
vrouwdewoman
kindhetchild
huishethouse
boekendebooks