koppelingsteken

The term "koppelingsteken" refers to a punctuation mark used in the Dutch language to indicate a pause or a break in the flow of speech. It is represented by a comma followed by a space and then another comma, like this: ", ,". This punctuation mark is used to separate clauses or phrases that are closely related but not necessarily dependent on each other. For example, in the sentence "Ik ga, , naar de winkel," the speaker is pausing before saying "naar de winkel," indicating a slight hesitation or a change in thought.

The use of the koppelingsteken is a stylistic choice and can vary depending on the context and the speaker's intent. It is often used in spoken language to create a more natural and fluid flow of speech, as it allows the speaker to pause and consider their next words before continuing. In written language, the koppelingsteken is less commonly used, as writers typically aim for a more formal and structured style.

The koppelingsteken is not to be confused with the regular comma, which is used to separate independent clauses or to indicate a pause in a sentence. The koppelingsteken serves a different purpose and is used in a more specific context. Its use is a reflection of the Dutch language's emphasis on clarity and precision in communication.