graag

Graag is a Dutch adverb meaning with pleasure, gladly, or would like. It expresses willingness, preference, or readiness to do something and is widely used in everyday speech. In statements it often follows the finite verb, as in Ik wil graag een kop koffie, meaning I would like a cup of coffee. It can also appear before the main verb in constructions with willen, such as Ik zou graag willen vertrekken, meaning I would like to leave. In questions, forms like Wil jij graag meedoen? ask whether someone would like to participate.

Graag is also used to indicate a positive response or preference in practical requests, for example Ik doe het graag, I’m happy to do it, or Ik eet graag brood, I enjoy eating bread. It can be negated with niet: Ik drink niet graag melk means I don’t like to drink milk. A common fixed expression is graag gedaan, a conventional reply to thanks that equals “you’re welcome” or “my pleasure.”

Etymology and related forms: the word is long established in Dutch and is linked to other Germanic expressions of willingness. Cognate forms appear in German as gern/gerne, and the broader semantic family includes English gladly. While related, the exact historical development differs by language, and Dutch graag remains a distinct, highly productive adverb in contemporary usage.

In usage notes, graag often conveys a modest or polite tone and can soften requests or refusals. It contrasts with liever, which means “prefer to” and expresses stronger preference, though they can be used together (Ik drink liever, maar ik doe het graag als het moet).