Erbij

Erbij is a Dutch adverbial particle that expresses addition, inclusion, or presence. It can indicate that something accompanies something else, or that someone is taking part in an activity. In daily use it can function both as a word by itself and as part of verb phrases.

Etymology and form: erbij comes from the combination of er (there, in that regard) and bij (by, with). It is generally written as one word. The meaning shifts with context: it can denote being present (“Ik ben erbij” – I am there) or being added or included (“Ik neem er nog wat kaas bij” – I’ll add some more cheese).

Common usages and expressions:

- Addition or accompaniment: erbij nemen (to take along/add), erbij doen (to add), erbij blijven (to stay involved). Example: “Mag ik er nog wat melk bij?” (Would you like some more milk with it?)

- Presence or participation: erbij zijn/erbij zijn geweest. Example: “Zij was erbij toen het gebeurde.” (She was there when it happened.)

- Belonging or inclusion: “Deze jas hoort erbij.” (This coat goes with it / belongs with it.)

Relation to similar terms: erbij is related to daarboven of daarnaast but has a narrower focus on addition or inclusion. The related word daarbij (with that/in relation to that) is used to connect to previously mentioned context, while erbij emphasizes addition or presence.

Notes: Erbij is a versatile element in Dutch grammar, appearing with diverse verbs and in everyday expressions. Its interpretation depends on whether it signals physical presence, addition, or belonging, and it is distinct from more formal connectors like daarnaast.