Aankaarten

Aankaarten is a Dutch verb meaning to bring up for discussion or to raise a topic in a meeting or formal setting. The term conveys presenting an issue for consideration, much like laying out cards to be dealt with by a group. It is commonly used with a direct object such as een punt, een onderwerp, or een voorstel: “Tijdens de vergadering wil ik graag een punt aankaarten over de begroting.”

The word is primarily encountered in formal or semi-formal contexts, such as business, government, academia, and organizational settings. It emphasizes the act of introducing something for discussion rather than deciding or resolving it. Aankaarten can be used in various tenses, with the corresponding conjugations of the verb, and can appear in active sentences or in passive-like constructions in reports or minutes.

Synonyms and related phrases include agenderen (to add to the agenda) and op de agenda zetten (to put on the agenda). The expression often contrasts with more evaluative or decision-focused language, signaling an invitation for discussion rather than a conclusion. In practice, aankaarten is a neutral, professional way to frame the introduction of issues, proposals, concerns, or questions to a group.

See also: agenda, vergadering, agenderen, op de agenda zetten, onder de aandacht brengen.