vanzelf

Vanzelf is a Dutch adverb meaning "by itself" or "automatically." It is used to express that an action occurs without deliberate action or external influence, or to indicate that a situation will develop without help. The form is typically written as one word and appears in everyday speech in phrases such as "Het komt vanzelf" (It will come by itself / automatically) or "De deur gaat vanzelf open" (The door opens by itself).

Etymology and usage notes: The word is generally analyzed as a compound of van (from) and zelf (self), conveying the sense of something happening on its own. In spoken Dutch, vanzelf is common in informal contexts, and it can reinforce the idea that no extra effort is required. In more formal writing, speakers may prefer synonymous terms like automatisch (automatic) or zonder hulp (without assistance).

Distinctions: Vanzelf is different from vanzelfsprekend, which means "obvious" or "self-evident." While vanzelf can emphasize the natural occurrence of an event, vanzelfsprekend focuses on clarity or inevitability in a broader sense.

Regional and register notes: The expression is widely used in the Netherlands and Flanders and is characteristic of everyday speech. While it remains understood in formal contexts, more formal language may opt for alternatives such as automatisch.

Related terms: vanzelfsprekend, automatisch, vanzelfsprekendheid (the quality of being obvious or self-evident).

See also: Dutch language, adverbs, self-action terms.