Part of communicating is explaining why we do something. This “why” could refer to our motivation, to explain more or be more specific, or even something as simple as to the function of things.<\/p>\n
In Dutch, this can be explained with the words\u00a0om + te + \u00a0_______ (infinitief).<\/em><\/p>\n If I want to explain why I am studying the language, I can say<\/p>\n Ik studeer Nederlands om beter te begrijpen.<\/em><\/p>\n If I want why I am choosing a particular beach for vacation, I can say<\/p>\n Marseille\u00a0is een leuke stad om op vakantie te gaan.<\/em><\/p>\n If I want to explain how I use a\u00a0device in the kitchen, I can say<\/p>\n Ik gebruik het koffieapparaat ook om met warm water thee te makken.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n The combination of\u00a0om<\/em> with\u00a0te + infinitief<\/em> already alerts the listener or reader as to why you are doing something. A common mistake from English speakers might be to use\u00a0voor\u00a0<\/em>instead of\u00a0om.<\/em> This is understandable given the use of “for” in English. However, it is incorrect even if your listener\/reader is be able to understand what you are saying.<\/p>\n The following video shows a new device ambulances in the Netherlands can use. Try answering the questions that follow.<\/p>\n
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