Genoeg

Genoeg is a Dutch word meaning enough, sufficient, or ample. It can function as a determiner before a noun (genoeg geld, genoeg tijd), as a pronoun on its own (We hebben genoeg), or as an adverb modifying a verb or clause (Ik heb genoeg gehoord). In attributive use it is invariable and is typically placed directly before the noun; when used as a pronoun or adverb it does not change form.

Etymology and cognates: Genoeg comes from Middle Dutch genoeg and is related to the German genug and the English enough. The term belongs to the core vocabulary of Dutch and is widely used in both spoken and written language.

Usage and meaning: The word expresses sufficiency or a threshold at which a quantity, amount, or degree is considered adequate. It can denote reality (there is enough tomorrow), request limits (stop when you have enough), or personal tolerance (I’ve had enough). Common expressions include "genoeg is genoeg" (enough is enough), "Ik heb genoeg van dit boek" (I have had enough of this book), and "er is genoeg van alles" (there is plenty of everything). With negation, "niet genoeg" means not enough, while "meer dan genoeg" emphasizes excess.

Grammatical notes: Genoeg is typically invariable when used before a noun and does not take inflections. It functions across different parts of speech, serving as a determiner, pronoun, or adverb, depending on context.

Cultural context: As a fundamental term for expressing limits and sufficiency, genoeg appears frequently in everyday speech, journalism, and literature. It also features in proverbs and political rhetoric to call for restraint or to mark boundaries.