This is the 30th most frequent Dutch word.
deze
"This" or "these" (depending on context).
Here, 'deze' is used as a demonstrative pronoun to indicate a specific apple, implying proximity in a concrete sense (the immediate apple being referred to).
Deze appel is zoet.
This apple is sweet.
In this example, 'deze' demonstrates a particular noun, 'deur', often nearby or implied within the conversation boundaries.
Waarom is deze deur gesloten?
Why is this door closed?
'Deze' is utilized here to refer collectively to a group of objects ('boeken'), showing plurality and close relationship to the speaker.