What are the rules for using the word er in passive sentences?

The Role of “Er” in Dutch Grammar

Before diving into passive sentences, it’s important to understand what “er” means in Dutch. “Er” is a highly flexible word that can serve as a placeholder, adverb, or pronoun. Its meaning often depends on context. In passive sentences, “er” is commonly used to indicate the presence of an unspecified subject or to maintain a natural word order.

When Is “Er” Used in Passive Sentences?

In Dutch, passive sentences are formed to emphasize the action rather than who is performing it. The passive voice is often created using the verb “worden” (to become) or “zijn” (to be), followed by the past participle of the main verb. “Er” is typically used in passive sentences when:

• The subject is unknown or unimportant
• The sentence begins with something other than the subject
• You want to introduce a new, indefinite subject

Examples of “Er” in Passive Sentences

Let’s look at some practical examples to clarify when and how “er” is used:

• Er wordt gelachen. (There is laughing / People are laughing.)
  Here, “er” stands in for an unspecified subject. The focus is on the action.
• Er wordt hard gewerkt in dit bedrijf. (There is hard work being done in this company.)
  “Er” introduces a general, unknown group of people who are working hard.
• Er zijn veel boeken gelezen. (A lot of books have been read.)
  The sentence emphasizes the action, not who read the books.

Rules for Using “Er” in Passive Sentences

1. Use “Er” When the Subject Is Indefinite

If the agent (the person doing the action) is unknown, indefinite, or unimportant, “er” is used as a placeholder subject at the beginning of the sentence. This is particularly common in news reports and formal writing.

2. “Er” Is Not Needed If the Subject Is Definite

If the passive sentence has a clear, definite subject, “er” is usually omitted:

• De boeken worden gelezen door de studenten. (The books are being read by the students.)

Here, “de boeken” is a definite subject, so “er” is not needed.

3. “Er” Maintains Natural Word Order

Dutch prefers to avoid starting sentences with the verb unless necessary. “Er” helps maintain a more natural word order by occupying the first position in the sentence when there is no clear subject.

4. “Er” Is Used with Existential Sentences

When a passive sentence expresses that something exists or happens in a general sense, “er” is required:

• Er wordt vaak geklaagd over het weer. (People often complain about the weather.)

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Many Dutch learners struggle with when to include or omit “er.” Here are some common pitfalls:

• Using “er” with a definite subject: Avoid adding “er” if your sentence already has a clear subject at the start.
• Omitting “er” in indefinite passive sentences: Remember to use “er” when the subject is unknown or general.

Practice by transforming active sentences into passive ones and check if the subject is definite or indefinite to decide on “er.”

Practice Tips for Mastering “Er” in Passive Sentences

• Read Dutch news articles and look for passive sentences with “er.”
• Write your own sentences, experimenting with both definite and indefinite subjects.
• Use language learning platforms like Talkpal to get instant feedback on your passive constructions.

Conclusion

The word “er” is a small but significant part of Dutch passive sentences. By understanding its rules and practicing regularly, you’ll find it much easier to form natural and grammatically correct sentences. For more tips, exercises, and personalized feedback, explore the language resources available on Talkpal. Mastering “er” will bring you one step closer to fluency in Dutch!