Plotselinge

Plotselinge is the attributive form of the Dutch adjective plotseling, meaning sudden or abrupt. It is used directly before a noun to describe something that happens or exists in a way that is unexpected or without warning. The word functions as an adjective and typically appears in phrases such as een plotselinge verandering or de plotselinge stilte. In these constructions, plotselinge modifies the noun that follows and conveys a sense of rapid or unforeseen occurrence.

Usage and meaning

Plotselinge describes events, changes, conditions, or appearances that arise quickly and without prior notice. It can refer to physical events, emotional shifts, or narrative developments. The term emphasizes the speed or surprise of the change rather than its inevitability.

Relation to related terms

A closely related word is plotseling, which functions as an adverb meaning suddenly, as in he vertrok plotseling. While plotseling describes qualities directly linked to a noun, plotseling as an adverb modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs.

Grammar notes

In Dutch, plotselinge behaves as a standard attributive adjective before a noun, often with -e in the form de plotselinge verandering or een plotselinge gebeurtenis. The exact inflection can vary with sentence structure, but the common usage places plotselinge directly before the noun it describes.

Translations

In English, plotselinge is usually translated as “sudden” or “abrupt,” depending on context, and is used to characterize the noun it precedes.

See also

Synonyms include onverwacht and abrup, while related concepts cover suddenness in general and narrative pacing.