dichtende

Dichtende is the present participle form of the Dutch verb dichten, which means to compose poetry or to close. In grammar, dichtende functions primarily as an adjective and is used in attributive position before a noun to mark ongoing poetic activity. Examples include phrases like a dichtende schrijver (a writer who composes poetry) or de dichtende generatie (the generation active in poetry). In everyday language, the more common term for a person who writes poetry is dichter; dichtende as a standalone noun is rare and mostly found in literary or stylistic contexts.

As a suffix-based participle, dichtende is formed from the stem dichter- via the -ende ending, aligning with other Dutch participial adjectives such as zingende or lopende. It conveys emphasis on the act of writing poetry rather than on fixed identity, distinguishing it from the simpler noun dichter.

Usage notes and context: dichtende is typically reserved for stylistic or descriptive purposes in modern Dutch. It may appear in literary criticism, poetic prose, or discussions that highlight the poet’s ongoing creative activity. For neutral reference, most speakers would use dichter when referring to a person who writes poetry, rather than relying on dichtende as a noun.

See also: dichten, dichter, poëzie.