Dutch, a Germanic language spoken primarily in the Netherlands, is known for its unique phrases and slang. Understanding these colloquial expressions can significantly enhance your ability to communicate and blend in like a local. Here are some popular Dutch slang terms and expressions that will spice up your language skills:
Gezellig
This term is perhaps one of the most famous Dutch expressions and describes an atmosphere or a situation that is cozy, quaint, or convivial. It can be used for a place, a person, or an event.
Wat een gezellige kamer heb je!
Lekker
Primarily meaning tasty when referring to food, ‘lekker’ is also broadly used to describe anything that is nice or pleasant.
We hebben lekker weer vandaag!
Gast
Similar to the English word ‘dude’, ‘gast’ is used informally to refer to a guy or man.
Heb je die gast gezien?
Uitbuiken
Literally translating to “out-belly”, this verb describes the act of relaxing and taking a break after a big meal.
Na het diner moeten we even uitbuiken.
Beunhaas
This is a playful term used to describe someone who is a handyman but not necessarily professional – more of a jack-of-all-trades.
Mijn buurman is echt een beunhaas, hij repareert alles zelf.
Borrel
A ‘borrel’ is a casual gathering where people come together to drink (usually alcohol) and socialize. It can also refer to the alcoholic drink itself.
Zullen we na het werk een borrel doen?
Schermutseling
Referring to a minor fight or skirmish, often used when describing a small conflict or argument.
Er was een kleine schermutseling buiten de bar gisteravond.
Bakkie doen
A very casual phrase meaning to have a cup of coffee together, emphasizing the social element rather than the drink.
Zullen we morgen een bakkie doen?
Stroopwafel
While technically not slang, no list of Dutch expressions would be complete without mentioning the beloved stroopwafel, a syrup waffle that is a popular Dutch treat.
Heb je ooit een stroopwafel geprobeerd? Ze zijn heerlijk!
Flappen tappen
Slang for withdrawing money from the ATM, where ‘flappen’ refers to banknotes and ‘tappen’ means to tap.
Ik moet even wat flappen tappen voordat we naar de markt gaan.
Daar zit geen kaas van gegeten hebben
This quirky expression means having no knowledge about something. It literally translates to “to have eaten no cheese of it.”
Ik heb daar echt geen kaas van gegeten.
Joh
A very common interjection in Dutch, similar to saying “yeah” or “you know” in English, often used to confirm something or to express agreement.
Dat is goed, joh!
Leuk
Translating to “fun” or “nice,” ‘leuk’ is used extensively in Dutch to describe pleasing people, places, or events.
We hebben een leuk feestje gehad.
Mazzel
Derived from the Hebrew word for luck, ‘mazzel’ is a way of wishing someone good fortune or simply saying goodbye.
Oké, mazzel!
Knalfeest
Used to describe a fantastic, high-energy party. ‘Knal’ refers to a bang, indicating the intensity.
Dat was echt een knalfeest gisteravond!
By incorporating these Dutch slang terms and colloquial expressions into your vocabulary, you not only enrich your language skills but also get a closer look into Dutch culture and how the locals express themselves. Whether you’re chatting with friends, exploring the cities, or simply enjoying a ‘gezellig’ evening at a ‘borrel’, these phrases will certainly help you sound more like a native. Happy learning!
