5 Native Dutch Words that Teachers Won't Teach You

If you’re trying to learn Dutch, it can be hard to understand the slang and idioms that only native speakers use. While there are many different slang words used throughout the Netherlands, here are five of the most popular phrases that only natives use and understand.

1. “Gezellig”

Gezellig is one of the most commonly used Dutch words. This word is so unique that there is no English equivalent for it. It’s often used to describe a pleasant atmosphere (similar to "cosy" and "comfortable"). However, you can also use "gezellig" as a characteristic to describe friendly and nice people.

Examples:

• Op koude avonden zitten wij gezellig bij het vuur. (On cold evenings we sit cozy by the fire)

• Mijn vriend is erg gezellig. Daarom ga ik met hem op reis. (My friend is very nice. That's why I'm going on a trip with him.)

• Dat restaurant ziet er gezellig uit! Zullen we daar eten? (That restaurant looks pleasant! Shall we eat there?)

2. "Lekker"

The original translation of "lekker" is delicious, sweet, or tasty, often referring to food. However, in daily life, Dutch people use "lekker" to describe more than food. It is an informal expression that is used to express approval and pleasure. It is often used in response to a question or statement, similar to how one might use the words "cool" or "nice" in English. Moreover, native Dutch speakers often use "lekker" to describe the nice weather. In short, it is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts and can be used to express a wide range of feelings.

Examples:

• Wil je een kopje koffie? Ja, lekker! (Would you like a cup of coffee? Yes, nice/would be delicious!)

• Een warme bad nemen in de winter is heel lekker. (Taking a warm bath in winter is very nice)

• Wanneer het buiten lekker weer is, ga ik voetballen. (When the weather is nice outside, I play football.)

• Dokter, ik voel me niet zo lekker. (Doctor, I don't feel very well)

3. “Lekker bezig”

”Lekker bezig“ is a Dutch expression that is similar to "good job", "well done" and "keep it up". The phrase is often used to praise someone who is doing something difficult or making progress on a task. It can also be used to thank or compliment someone for a job well done. The phrase is usually used informally and is often seen among families and friends. It can even be used sarcastically if someone is not performing well.

Examples:

• A: “Ik heb net de zwemwedstrijd gewonnen.” (I have won the swimming competition.)

• B: “Lekker bezig!” (Well done!)

• A: "Jan heeft mooie cijfers gehaald, omdat hij veel oefent." (Jan got good grades because he practices a lot.)

• B: "Jan is lekker bezig!" (Jan is doing great!)

4. Tsjonge Jonge

Tsjonge Jonge is a Dutch expression that is used to express surprise or amazement. It is surprisingly versatile, as it can be used to express everything from admiration to astonishment to disbelief. The literal translation of the phrase is "Wow, wow," but it is more often used to express something like "Oh my goodness," or "Wow, that's amazing". It can also be used to substitute a sigh in an uncomfortable situation. Please note that "Tsjonge jonge" is an informal phrase, used mostly in informal conversations.

Examples:

• A: “Ik heb twee miljoen euro gewonnen van de loterij.” (I have won two million euros from the lotery.)

• B: “Tsjonge jonge, dat is veel geld!” (Oh my goodness, that's a lot of money!)

• A: "Er is nu een file, daarom staan we stil." (There is now a traffic jam, that's why we're standing still.)

• B: "Tsjonge jonge, nu kom ik niet op tijd bij mijn afpraak." (Sigh, now I won't make it to my appointment in time.)

5. Oei

”Oei“ is a Dutch interjection, typically used to express surprise or shock in a negative context. It is similar to the English expression "Oh!" or "Oops!" and can be used in a variety of contexts. Oei is most commonly used to express surprise or to draw attention to something unexpected. For example, if someone drops his phone, a person might say "Oei!". Oei can also be used as an exclamation of disappointment, similar to the English expression "Oh no!". Additionally, Oei can be used as an expression of frustration or annoyance. In any of these cases, the speaker does not need to explain further or provide additional context. Summarized, Oei is a versatile expression, and can be used for many different purposes.

Examples:

• A: “Ik ben vergeten om de deur op slot te doen.” (I forgot to lock the door.)

• B: “Oei, weet je het zeker?” (Oh (in an unexpected way), are you sure?)

• A: "Ik ben van de trap gevallen." (I fell down the stairs.)

• B: "Oei, doet het pijn?" (Oh no, does it hurt?)

Bonus: Houdoe

Congrats! You made it to the end of this blog. Here is a bonus word as a reward: Houdoe.

Houdoe (pronounced as "how-do") means "(good)bye". This is a special word, because it is only used in the province North-Brabant (Noord-Brabant). It is slightly different from the standard "doei": "houdoe" is more gezellig. Therefore, it is a pleasant way to say goodbye in native Dutch when you are in North-Brabant. (Please keep in mind that almost no one outside Brabant uses this word!)

Example:

• A: “Ik zie je morgen!” (I see you tomorrow!)

• B: “Houdoe!” (Bye bye!)

Learning these Dutch words will help you understand conversations among native speakers, and can make your time in the Netherlands even more enjoyable. If you’re looking to expand your Dutch vocabulary, there are also many other slang words used throughout the country. With a bit of practice and dedication, you’ll soon be speaking Dutch like a native!