Dutch slang and colloquialisms form an essential part of everyday conversation in the Netherlands, offering a more relaxed tone and reflecting various aspects of local culture and society. Here, we explore some of the most commonly used Dutch slang terms and their meanings.
Gezellig
This word is quintessentially Dutch and doesn’t have a direct translation in English. It refers to an atmosphere or a situation that is cozy, quaint, or pleasant. It can also describe a person who is amiable and good company.
Wat een gezellig café is dit!
Lekker
Commonly used to describe delicious food, this word can also apply to anything that is nice or enjoyable, such as weather or even a comfortable bed.
Het weer is lekker vandaag!
Gast
Equivalent to the English word “dude” or “guy,” it’s used to refer to a man or a boy, often in a casual or informal manner.
Wie is die gast daar?
Chillen
Borrowed from English, “chillen” means to chill or relax. It’s often used among younger people to describe hanging out in a relaxed manner.
Ik ben thuis aan het chillen met vrienden.
Bakkie doen
Literally translating to “do a cup,” this phrase means to have a coffee, typically implying a casual meeting or catch-up.
Zullen we morgen een bakkie doen?
Mazzel
This slang word is derived from the Hebrew word for “luck.” It’s often used to say goodbye, akin to saying “good luck” or “bye” in English.
Oké, ik ga nu. Mazzel!
Uitbuiken
A unique Dutch concept, “uitbuiken” refers to the act of resting after a large meal, usually by sitting or reclining to “let the belly out.”
Na het diner moeten we even uitbuiken op de bank.
Gaaf
Used to express that something is cool or awesome, similar to how these words are used in English.
Dat nieuwe café is echt gaaf!
Doen
While the direct translation is “to do,” in slang, it can imply encouragement or agreement, akin to saying “let’s do it” or “go for it” in English.
Kom op, we doen het gewoon!
Sloffie
An endearing term for a slipper or a comfortable, casual shoe, often used in the plural form “sloffies” to mean slippers.
Ik heb nieuwe sloffies gekocht voor de winter.
Beunen
A colloquial verb meaning to work hard or hustle, especially in a context outside of regular employment, such as fixing something as a handyman.
Hij is de hele dag aan het beunen in de tuin.
Blut
A slang term for being broke or having no money.
Ik kan niet mee uit eten, ik ben helemaal blut.
Tof
Synonymous with “cool” or “great,” used to express approval or admiration for someone or something.
Jouw nieuwe fiets is echt tof!
Boeie
Derived from “boeien,” which literally means “to chain,” this slang expression is used to indicate indifference or lack of interest, similar to saying “whatever” in English.
Boeie, ik vind het niet zo belangrijk.
Borrel
Refers to a casual gathering where people drink and possibly eat small snacks. It can also refer to an alcoholic drink itself, particularly in a social setting.
We hebben vrijdag een borrel na werk.
Understanding these Dutch slang terms and colloquialisms can greatly enhance your conversational skills and help you blend in more with the locals. Each term offers a glimpse into Dutch culture, providing a deeper understanding of how informal communication functions in the Netherlands. Whether you’re planning to visit or just keen on expanding your language repertoire, these phrases will certainly add a lively touch to your Dutch conversations.
