Start off the year by learning how to introduce yourself properly in Dutch! Learn easily with DutchPod101 in this four-minute video!

Table of Contents

1. 10 Lines You Need for Introducing Yourself in Dutch
2. Important Tips for Introducing Yourself
3. Video - How to Introduce Yourself in Dutch
4. Why DutchPod101 is Perfect for Learning all about Dutch Introductions

1. 10 Lines You Need for Introducing Yourself in Dutch

First impressions are absolutely everything! Right? No, wrong - who you are every day is much more important. But first impressions are definitely not unimportant either. Make sure to introduce yourself correctly, as it could mean the difference between getting a job offer or a polite refusal from an employer. DutchPod101 shows you how to read, write and pronounce these self-introductions and conversation-starters like a native speaker!

But first, a tip - wait to be asked before offering personal details such as your age. Good conversation is about unspoken reciprocity, and giving too many personal details too soon can be embarrassing for your Dutch friend. Rather use phrases that encourage your friend to talk about him or herself - most people like doing that! Also, it shows you take real interest in other people.

1- Hello, it’s nice to meet you.

Hallo, leuk je te ontmoeten.

This phrase is an excellent way to start an introduction. It is a greeting that immediately expresses interest in the other person.

2- My name is Kevin.

Mijn naam is Kevin.

Self-explanatory - just replace ‘Kevin’ with your own name! Also, pay close attention to what your new Dutch acquaintance’s name is. Remembering it will make them feel that you are really interested in him/her as a person!

3- I’m from the Netherlands.

Ik kom uit Nederland.

Sharing something about yourself is a nice conversation starter. It shows that you’re willing to engage meaningfully with the other person. In an informal setting, you can expect the other person to respond in kind. At work, this is probably information you need to volunteer only if asked. Again, remember to replace ‘the Netherlands’ with your own country of birth!

4- I live in Amsterdam.

Ik woon in Amsterdam.

Same as above - replace ‘Amsterdam’ with your town or city of abode!

5- I’ve been learning Dutch for a year.

Ik ben al een jaar Nederlands aan het leren.

Say this only if it’s true, obviously. And prepare to dazzle your audience! If you have indeed worked faithfully at your Dutch for a year, you should be pretty good at it! Use this phrase after your introduction - it is likely to indicate that you wish to engage in Dutch conversation.

6- I’m learning Dutch at DutchPod101.com.

Ik ben Nederlands aan het leren op DutchPod101.com.

This will be the best reply if anyone asks (Very impressed, of course!) where you study Dutch! Simply volunteering this information, especially in a casual conversation, could make you sound like a salesperson, and you want to avoid that. Often, an employer will want this information though, so best to memorize and have this phrase handy!

7- I’m 27 years old.

Ik ben 27 jaar oud.

This is a line that may just get you a ‘TMI!’ look from a stranger if you volunteer it without being asked. He/she may not be willing to divulge such an intimate detail about him/herself right at the start of your acquaintance, so don’t force reciprocity. However, it’s a good phrase to know in a job interview; again, probably best only if your prospective Dutch employer asks. Also, remember to give your true age!

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8- I’m a teacher.

Ik ben leraar.

You’re still offering information about yourself, which lends good momentum to keep the conversation going! Replace ‘teacher’ with your own occupation - and learn the related vocabulary with DutchPod101!

9- One of my hobbies is reading.

Een van mijn hobby’s is lezen.

Your hobby is another topic with lots of potential for starting a good conversation! People are often eager to talk about their hobbies, and why they like them!

10- I enjoy listening to music.

Ik geniet van het luisteren naar muziek.

If you’re still talking about your hobbies, this would be a good line to go with the previous one. Otherwise, wait for your conversation partner to start talking about what they enjoy doing!

2. Important Tips for Introducing Yourself

A correct Dutch introduction will make a good impression upon meeting a person for the first time. Why is this first impression important? Simple - it gives an indication of who you are as a person. So, while you want to be truthful when representing yourself, you also need to be prepared to put your best foot forward!

First impressions are often lingering and difficult to change. In addition, it’s easier to make a negative impression than a good one, often without intending to. So, how can you make sure that your self-introduction will impress Dutch natives?

1- Research: First, research the culture! Different cultures have different social rules, and you will be halfway towards making a great first impression if you know the proper Dutch customs for self-introductions. It will also help you avoid social mistakes - sometimes, what is acceptable in one culture is insulting in another, such as making eye contact, or giving a handshake. In your culture, what is appropriate when a person introduces him or herself?

Also, be sure to distinguish between introductions in different situations, such as a formal and a social situation. There are bound to be differences in how you address people! The internet can be an important tool for this endeavor. Alternatively, you could visit your local library to search for books on this topic, or you could ask Dutch friends to explain and demonstrate their cultural habits for introductions. Honoring someone’s culture shows that you respect it, and as we know - a little respect can go a very long way in any relationship!

2- Study the Correct Phrases and Vocabulary: Be sure to learn Dutch phrases and vocabulary that tell people who you are, and that encourage them to engage in conversation with you. Each situation will determine how to address the person you want to introduce yourself to. Also, make sure your pronunciation is correct! It would be most valuable to have Dutch-speaking friends who can help you with this. Or read on for a quick phrase and video lesson on Dutch introductions right here at DutchPod101!

3- Appearance: This is pretty obvious - if you want to make a good impression introducing yourself to anyone for the first time, you need to be neatly dressed and well groomed! A shabby, dirty or careless appearance and bad body odor are to be avoided at all costs; in most cultures, these will not impress!

Also, make sure to dress appropriately, not only for the occasion, but also for the culture. For instance, bare shoulders or an open-necked shirt is an acceptable gear in many Western countries. Yet, in some cultures, dressing like this could deeply offend your host. No amount of good manners and properly expressed introductions is likely to wipe out a cultural no-no! So, be sure to know how to dress, and take care with your appearance when you are about to introduce yourself to someone for the first time!

Following are some neat phrases with which you can introduce yourself in Dutch, and get a conversation started too!

3. Video - How to Introduce Yourself in Dutch

Good, you read and perhaps even memorized the preceding phrases to successfully introduce yourself in Dutch! Watch this short video now to get a quick lesson on Dutch grammar for these introductions, as well as how to pronounce them correctly. You will sound like a native when you can copy the presenter perfectly!

4. Why DutchPod101 is Perfect for Learning all about Dutch Introductions

• Culturally Focused Lessons: All our material is aimed not only to help you learn perfect Dutch, but also to introduce you to the Dutch culture! Learn here, for instance, a list of favorite Dutch foods. Alternatively, listen to these audio lessons on Dutch culture! Studying through us could be very valuable before visiting Netherlands for any purpose.
• Accurate and Correct Pronunciation & Inflection: Our hosts and voice actors are native Dutch speakers of the best quality! It is important for us that you speak Dutch correctly to avoid embarrassing misunderstandings and miscommunications. If you practice and can copy these presenters well, you will sound just like Dutch natives and your introduction will be easily understood!
• State-of-the-Art Lesson Formats and Methods: Efficacy in learning is our highest priority. You will have access to learning tools that were carefully developed by learning specialists over more than a decade! We use only well-researched, proven lesson formats and teaching methods to ensure fast, accurate, fun and easy learning! Millions of happy subscribers can’t be wrong! Create a lifetime account with DutchPod101 for free access to many learning tools that are updated every week.
• Learn to Read and Write in Dutch: We don’t only teach you to speak, you can also learn to read and write in Dutch! This way you can express your Dutch introduction in more than one way and be thoroughly prepared.
• A Learning Plan that Suits your Pocket: DutchPod101 takes pride in making learning not only easy and fun, but also affordable. Opening a lifetime account for free will offer you a free seven-day trial, after which you can join with an option that suits your needs and means. Learning Dutch has never been easier or more affordable! Even choosing only the ‘Basic’ option will give you access to everything you need to learn Dutch effectively, like thousands of audio and video lessons! However, if you need to learn Dutch fast, the Premium and Premium Plus options will be good to consider, as both offer a vast number of extra tools to ensure efficient learning. This way you can be sure that you will reach your learning goal easily!

Whatever your needs are for learning Dutch, make sure to do it through DutchPod101, and you will never have to google: “How do I introduce myself in Dutch” again!

What is Pentecost Sunday in the Netherlands?

Each year, the Netherlands observes the Pentecostal celebration to remember the Covenant between God and Israel, as well as the descension of the Holy Spirit onto Christians. The Day of Pentecost is celebrated both as a religious holiday and as an opportunity to relax and enjoy life.

In learning about the Dutch traditions for the Feast of Pentecost, you’ll see how Dutch culture intertwines with a holiday celebrated in various parts of the world. In turn, you’ll better absorb the Dutch way of life and the Netherlands’ culture, especially regarding religion. Understanding culture is one of the most essential steps in mastering any target language, and at DutchPod101.com, we hope to make this learning endeavor both fun and insightful!

1. What is Pentecost?

So, what is the Day of Pentecost?

Many people in the Netherlands view Pentecost as just a day off. For the younger generation especially, this is all Pentecost means. But we all know there’s way more to the story of Pentecost.

It so happens that Pentecost derives from the Jewish Feast of Weeks, also known as Shavuot. Whereas Pentecost was formerly just a feast of thanks for bringing in a good harvest, Pentecost received a new meaning after the second century AD, namely as the day we commemorate the Covenant between God and Israel.

2. Day of Pentecost: When is Pentecost?

The date of Pentecost varies from year to year in correspondence with Easter. For your convenience, here’s a list of this holiday’s date for the next ten years.

• 2019: June 9
• 2020: May 31
• 2021: May 23
• 2022: June 5
• 2023: May 28
• 2024: May 19
• 2025: June 8
• 2026: May 24
• 2027: May 16
• 2028: June 4

3. Reading Practice: Pentecost Celebrations in the Netherlands

How do the Dutch celebrate Pentecost? Read the Dutch text below to find out (and find the English translation directly below it).

—

Pinksteren wordt gekenmerkt door veel openlucht muziekfestivals, vakanties en andere outdoor activiteiten.

Wist u dat de steden Amsterdam, Utrecht en Den Haag behoren tot de drie meest populaire steden om te gaan winkelen op een vrije dag? Naast het eindeloze aanbod van winkels, uitgaansgelegenheden, restaurants en musea staat Den Haag ook bekend om zijn stranden.

—

Whit Sunday is marked by a great deal of outdoor music festivals, vacations, and other outdoor activities.

Pinkpop is an annual, three-day pop music festival in Landgraaf that takes place during the Pentecost weekend. The festival runs for three days and attracts about 60,000 people a day. Pinkpop is one of the longest running annual pop festivals in the world. The event is always held during Pentecost in theory, but if Pentecost falls early in the year, it is celebrated on a different weekend where the dates are in or come closer to the month of June. Around the month of June, most bands are on tour throughout Europe, given the many festivals here. Many attendees wear the iconic pink Pinkpop hats during the festival.

In the Netherlands, many people make a point of attending church on Whit Sunday, even if they do not go to church most of the time. It is also a day to enjoy the great outdoors by riding bikes or walking. Since this holiday falls during the spring, it is typically marked by people enjoying the fresh, spring weather.

There are also some traditions still practiced throughout the Netherlands. In some areas, the single men of a town select a Pentecost bride, a single girl who also lives in the town. Townspeople decorate her with flowers and place a crown on the head. She leads a procession through the town, which then starts a time during which couples were traditionally formed. Many Dutch couples get together during this time, so it is a popular time of year for engagements or the beginning of a dating relationship.

Did you know that Amsterdam, Utrecht and the Hague are among the three most popular cities for going shopping on a day off? In addition to the endless supply of stores, nightlife, restaurants and museums, the Hague and Amsterdam are also known for their beaches.

4. What Does Pentecost Mean?

Do you know what the Greek word Pentecoste means in Dutch?

Pentecost is a cognate that derives from the Greek word Pentēkostē, which signifies the number fifty. This number refers to the day when Pentecost is celebrated.

5. Useful Vocabulary for Pentecost in the Netherlands

Here’s some vocabulary you should know for Pentecost in the Netherlands!

• Kermis — “Fair”
• Geboorte — “Birth”
• Muziek — “Music”
• Doop — “Christening”
• Christening is the giving of another (Christian) name to someone after baptism, usually a baby.
• Hemel — “Heaven”
• Katholieke Kerk — “Catholic Church”
• Voorjaarsfeest — “Spring-celebration”
• Pinkstergemeente — “Pentecostal congregation”
• Heilige Geest — “Holy Spirit”
• Pinksteren — “Pentecost”
• Kerkdienst — “Religious service”

To hear each vocabulary word pronounced, check out our Dutch Pentecost vocabulary list. Here, each word is accompanied by an audio file of its pronunciation.

Conclusion

Does your country celebrate Pentecost too? If so, what kind of traditions and celebrations do you have? Let us know in the comments!

If you want to learn more about Dutch culture and the language, visit us at DutchPod101.com! It’s our goal to make your language-learning journey both fun and informative, and we provide this experience through practical learning tools and our whole-hearted support! Read more insightful blog posts like this one, study some of our free Dutch vocabulary lists, and chat with fellow students on our community forums.

Know that your hard work will soon pay off, and you’ll be speaking Dutch like a native before you know it! DutchPod101.com will be here with you on each step of your journey to mastery!

In the Netherlands, holidays are celebrated with a lot of heart; Moederdag may be celebrated with even more heart! Moederdag (”Mother’s Day̶ in the Netherlands is special among Dutch holidays, as it gives children and grandchildren a day to rejoice in their mothers.

Another fun fact about family holidays: Netherlands first celebrated Mother’s Day before it celebrated Father’s Day! Do you know when each holiday was first celebrated here? We’ll give your curious mind the answer later.

At DutchPod101.com, we hope to make learning about holidays in Netherlands both fun and informative! So let’s get started.

1. What is Mother’s Day?

We celebrate Mother’s Day being mindful of the fact that our mothers assume the role of caregiver for the family throughout the entire year, and that they have always done so. For this reason, Mother’s Day is when their children (and grandchildren) show their appreciation, respect, and love for them.

Mother’s Day has been celebrated in the Netherlands for close to a century, each year seeing mothers cherished through gifts, quality time, kind words, and more!

2. Mother’s Day Date: When is Mother’s Day?

The date of Mother’s Day in the Netherlands varies each year, but is always the second Sunday in May. For your convenience, here’s a list of this holiday’s date for the next ten years.

• 2019: May 12
• 2020: May 10
• 2021: May 9
• 2022: May 8
• 2023: May 14
• 2024: May 12
• 2025: May 11
• 2026: May 10
• 2027: May 9
• 2028: May 14

3. Reading Practice: How do the Dutch Celebrate Moederdag?

Read the Dutch text below to find out how the Dutch celebrate Mother’s Day (and find the English translation directly below it).

—

Op deze ene dag in het jaar word moederlief vrijgesteld van haar taken en op een voetstuk geplaatst. Kinderen leggen de moeder in de watten en begint de dag vaak met ontbijt op bed plus een cadeautje. Bij hele jonge kinderen wordt het cadeautje vaak een week van te voren al gemaakt op school. Op een latere leeftijd wordt het al gauw een bloemetje of zelfs een luchtje.

—

On this one day of the year, mommy dearest gets to take a break and is put on a pedestal. Children pamper the mother and often start the day with breakfast in bed, plus a gift. As for really young kids, they often make the gift at school a week in advance. When they’re older, they move on to giving a flower or even perfume spray.

4. Beginnings of Mother’s and Father’s Day

When do you think Mother’s Day and Father’s Day were first celebrated in the Netherlands?

Mother’s Day was celebrated in the Netherlands for over a decade before the first official Father’s Day ever was. Mother’s Day began around 1925 in the Netherlands, and Father’s Day didn’t start until 1937. So, Mother’s Day officially came earlier, so the fathers still have over a decade of catching up to do on presents!

Another tidbit of information for you:

Mother’s Day and Father’s Day are not to be confused for Mama and Papa days. These days, it’s becoming more common for both parents to hold jobs and the children to spend the day in elementary school and a daycare center. To keep this to a minimum, we have days off for parental leave in the form of “Mama” and “Papa” days.

5. Useful Vocabulary for Mother’s Day in the Netherlands

Here’s some vocabulary you should know for Mother’s Day in the Netherlands!

• Zondag — “Sunday”
• Zoon — “Son”
• Dochter — “Daughter”
• Chocolade — “Chocolate“
• Diner — “Dinner”
• Roos — “Rose”
• Houden van — “Love”
• Moeder — “Mother”
• Cadeau — “Present”
• Wenskaart — “Greeting card”
• Moederdag — “Mother’s Day”
• Cadeaubon — “Gift certificate”
• Vieren — “Celebrate”
• Ontbijt op bed — “Breakfast in bed”

To hear each of these vocabulary words pronounced, check out our Mother’s Day vocabulary list. Here, you’ll find each word accompanied by an audio file of its pronunciation.

Conclusion

What do you think of Mother’s Day celebrations in the Netherlands? In what ways do you see the country’s culture reflected in this popular holiday? Are celebrations similar in your own country? Let us know in the comments! We’d love to hear from you.

To learn more about Netherlands culture, visit us at DutchPod101.com. We offer insightful blog posts on a variety of topics about the Netherlands, as well as podcasts to keep you informed on the go! You can also check out our free vocabulary lists to expand your Dutch word bank, chat with fellow Dutch learners on our forums, and upgrade to Premium Plus to take advantage of our MyTeacher program! At DutchPod101.com, there’s something for every learner and every learner can master the language and culture of beautiful Netherlands!

In the meantime, Gelukkige Moederdag! (”Happy Mother’s Day!” in Dutch). Be sure to give your mother, grandmother, or motherly figure some Mother’s Day flowers or a meaningful Mother’s Day gift!

Do you often feel lonely and sad? Do you long for romance and are willing to do whatever it takes to meet that special person? Speaking another language could revolutionize your love life! So, why wait? Learning how to say ‘love’ in Dutch could be just what you need to find it.

Or perhaps you were lucky, and have found your Dutch partner already. Fantastic! Yet, a cross-cultural relationship comes with unique challenges. Learning how to speak your lover’s language will greatly improve your communication and enhance the relationship. At DutchPod101, our team will teach you all the words, quotes and phrases you need to woo your Dutch lover with excellence! Our tutors provide personal assistance, with plenty of extra material available to make Dutch dating easy for you.

Table of Contents

1. Common Phrases You’ll Need for a Date
2. The Most Romantic Ideas for a Date
3. Must-know Valentine’s Day Vocabulary
4. Dutch Love Phrases for Valentine’s Day
5. Dutch Quotes about Love
6. Marriage Proposal Lines
7. 15 Most Common Break-Up Lines
8. Will Falling in Love Help You Learn Dutch Faster?

Start with a bonus, and download the ‘How To be a Good Lover Cheat Sheet’ for FREE! (Logged-In Member Only)

1. Common Phrases You’ll Need for a Date

So, you have met your Dutch love interest. Congratulations! Who knows where this could take you…?! However, the two of you have just met and you’re not ready to say the Dutch word for love just yet. Great, it is better to get to know him/her first. Wow your prospective love by using these Dutch date phrases to set up a spectacular first date.

Would you like to go out to dinner with me?

• Heb je zin om met mij uiteten te gaan ?

The important question! In most cultures, this phrase indicates: ‘I’m romantically interested in you’. Flirting in Dutch is no different, so don’t take your date to Mcdonald’s!

Are you free this weekend?

• Ben je dit weekend vrij?

This is a preamble to asking your love interest on a date. If you get an immediate ‘Yes’, that’s good news!

Would you like to hang out with me?

• Heb je zin om samen iets te gaan doen ?

You like her/him, but you’re not sure if there’s chemistry. Ask them to hang out first to see if a dinner date is next.

What time shall we meet tomorrow?

• Hoe laat zullen we morgen afspreken?

Set a time, and be sure to arrive early! Nothing spoils a potential relationship more than a tardy date.

Where shall we meet?

• Waar zullen we afspreken ?

You can ask this, but also suggest a place.

You look great.

• Je ziet er goed uit.

A wonderful ice breaker! This phrase will help them relax a bit - they probably took great care to look their best just for you.

You are so cute.

• Je bent zo schattig.

If the two of you are getting on really well, this is a fun, flirtatious phrase to use.

What do you think of this place?

• Wat vind je van deze plek?

This another good conversation starter. Show off your Dutch language skills!

Can I see you again?

• Mag ik je nog eens zien ?

So the date went really well - don’t waste time! Make sure you will see each other again.

Shall we go somewhere else?

• Zullen we ergens anders naartoe gaan?

If the place you meet at is not great, you can suggest going elsewhere. It is also a good question to follow the previous one. Variety is the spice of life!

I know a good place.

• Ik weet een leuke plek.

Use this with the previous question. However, don’t say if you don’t know a good place!

I will drive you home.

• Ik zal je naar huis rijden.

If your date doesn’t have transport, this is a polite, considerate offer. However, don’t be offended if she/he turns you down on the first date. Especially a woman might not feel comfortable letting you drive her home when the two of you are still basically strangers.

That was a great evening.

• Dat was een geweldige avond.

This is a good phrase to end the evening with.

When can I see you again?

• Wanneer kan ik je weer zien?

If he/she replied ‘Yes’ to ‘Can I see you again?’, this is the next important question.

I’ll call you.

• Ik zal je bellen.

Say this only if you really mean to do it. In many cultures, this could imply that you’re keeping the proverbial backdoor open.

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2. The Most Romantic Ideas for a Date

You learned all the Dutch phrases to make a date - congratulations! Now you have to decide where to meet, which can be tricky. Discuss these options with your lover to gauge whether you like the same things. Check out romantic date ideas in Dutch below!

museum

• museum

If you’re looking for unique date ideas that are fun but won’t break the bank, museums are the perfect spot! You won’t be running out of things to say in the conversations.

candlelit dinner

• diner bij kaarslicht

A candlelit dinner is perhaps best to reserve for when the relationship is getting serious. It’s very intimate, and says: “Romance!” It’s a fantastic choice if you’re sure you and your date are in love with each other!

go to the zoo

• naar de dierentuin gaan

This is a good choice for shy lovers who want to get the conversation going. Just make sure your date likes zoos, as some people dislike them. Maybe not for the first date, but this is also a great choice if your lover has children - you’ll win his/her adoration for inviting them along!

go for a long walk

• een lange wandeling maken

Need to talk about serious stuff, or just want to relax with your date? Walking together is soothing, and a habit you can keep up together always! Just make sure it’s a beautiful walk that’s not too strenuous.

go to the opera

• naar de opera gaan

This type of date should only be attempted if both of you love the opera. It can be a special treat, followed by a candlelit dinner!

go to the aquarium

• naar een aquarium gaan

Going to the aquarium is another good idea if you need topics for conversation, or if you need to impress your lover’s kids! Make sure your date doesn’t have a problem with aquariums.

walk on the beach

• een strandwandeling maken

This can be a very romantic stroll, especially at night! The sea is often associated with romance and beauty.

have a picnic

• gaan picknicken

If you and your date need to get more comfortable together, this can be a fantastic date. Spending time in nature is soothing and calms the nerves.

cook a meal together

• samen een maaltijd koken

If you want to get an idea of your date’s true character in one go, this is an excellent date! You will quickly see if the two of you can work together in a confined space. If it works, it will be fantastic for the relationship and create a sense of intimacy. If not, you will probably part ways!

have dinner and see a movie

• dineren en naar de film gaan

This is traditional date choice works perfectly well. Just make sure you and your date like the same kind of movies!

3. Must-know Valentine’s Day Vocabulary

Expressing your feelings honestly is very important in any relationship all year round. Yet, on Valentine’s Day you really want to shine. Impress your lover this Valentine’s with your excellent vocabulary, and make his/her day! We teach you, in fun, effective ways, the meanings of the words and how to pronounce them. You can also copy the characters and learn how to write ‘I love you’ in Dutch - think how impressed your date will be!

4. Dutch Love Phrases for Valentine’s Day

So, you now have the basic Valentine’s Day vocabulary under your belt. Well done! But, do you know how to say ‘I love you’ in Dutch yet? Or perhaps you are still only friends. So, do you know how to say ‘I like you’ or ‘I have a crush on you’ in Dutch? No? Don’t worry, here are all the love phrases you need to bowl over your Dutch love on this special day!

I love you.

• Ik hou van je.

Saying ‘I love you’ in Dutch carries the same weight as in all languages. Use this only if you’re sure and sincere about your feelings for your partner/friend.

You mean so much to me.

• Je betekent ontzettend veel voor me.

This is a beautiful expression of gratitude that will enhance any relationship! It makes the receiver feel appreciated and their efforts recognized.

Will you be my Valentine?

• Wil jij mijn Valentijn zijn?

With these words, you are taking your relationship to the next level! Or, if you have been a couple for a while, it shows that you still feel the romance. So, go for it!

You’re so beautiful.

• Je bent zo mooi.

If you don’t know how to say ‘You’re pretty’ in Dutch, this is a good substitute, gentlemen!

I think of you as more than a friend.

• Ik zie in jou in meer dan alleen een vriend.

Say this if you are not yet sure that your romantic feelings are reciprocated. It is also a safe go-to if you’re unsure about the Dutch dating culture.

A hundred hearts would be too few to carry all my love for you.

• Honderd harten zijn te weinig om al mijn liefde voor je te dragen.

You romantic you…! When your heart overflows with love, this would be the best phrase to use.

Love is just love. It can never be explained.

• Liefde is gewoon liefde. Er is geen verklaring voor.

If you fell in love unexpectedly or inexplicably, this one’s for you.

You’re so handsome.

• Je bent zo knap.

Ladies, this phrase lets your Dutch love know how much you appreciate his looks! Don’t be shy to use it; men like compliments too.

I’ve got a crush on you.

• Ik ben verliefd op je.

If you like someone, but you’re unsure about starting a relationship, it would be prudent to say this. It simply means that you like someone very, very much and think they’re amazing.

You make me want to be a better man.

• Je zorgt er voor dat ik een betere man wil zijn.

Gentlemen, don’t claim this phrase as your own! It hails from the movie ‘As Good as it Gets’, but it is sure to make your Dutch girlfriend feel very special. Let her know that she inspires you!

Let all that you do be done in love.

• Laat alles wat je doet uit naam van de liefde zijn.

We hope.

You are my sunshine, my love.

• Mijn liefste, jij bent mijn zonneschijn.

A compliment that lets your lover know they bring a special quality to your life. Really nice!

Words can’t describe my love for you.

• Woorden kunnen mijn liefde voor jou niet omschrijven.

Better say this when you’re feeling serious about the relationship! It means that your feelings are very intense.

We were meant to be together.

• Wij zijn voor elkaar bestemd.

This is a loving affirmation that shows you see a future together, and that you feel a special bond with your partner.

If you were thinking about someone while reading this, you’re definitely in love.

• Als je aan iemand denk terwijl je dit leest ben je zeker verliefd.

Here’s something fun to tease your lover with. And hope he/she was thinking of you!

5. Dutch Quotes about Love

You’re a love champ! You and your Dutch lover are getting along fantastically, your dates are awesome, your Valentine’s Day together was spectacular, and you’re very much in love. Good for you! Here are some beautiful phrases of endearment in Dutch that will remind him/her who is in your thoughts all the time.

6. Marriage Proposal Lines

Wow. Your Dutch lover is indeed the love of your life - congratulations! And may only happiness follow the two of you! In most traditions, the man asks the woman to marry; this is also the Dutch custom. Here are a few sincere and romantic lines that will help you to ask your lady-love for her hand in marriage.

7. 15 Most Common Break-Up Lines

Instead of moving towards marriage or a long-term relationship, you find that the spark is not there for you. That is a pity! But even though breaking up is never easy, continuing a bad or unfulfilling relationship would be even harder. Remember to be kind to the person you are going to say goodbye to; respect and sensitivity cost nothing. Here are some phrases to help you break up gently.

8. Will Falling in Love help you Learn Dutch faster?

Most people will agree that the above statement is a no-brainer - of course it will! Your body will be flooded with feel-good hormones, which are superb motivators for anything. DutchPod101 is one of the best portals to help help make this a reality, so don’t hesitate to enroll now! Let’s quickly look at the reasons why falling in love will speed up your learning of the Dutch language.

Three Reasons Why Having a Lover will Help you Learn Dutch Faster!

1- Being in a love relationship with your Dutch speaking partner will immerse you in the culture
DutchPod101 uses immersive methods and tools to teach you Dutch, but having a relationship with a native speaker will be a very valuable addition to your learning experience! You will gain exposure to their world, realtime and vividly, which will make the language come alive even more for you. The experience is likely to expand your world-view, which should motivate you to learn Dutch even faster.

2- Having your Dutch romantic partner will mean more opportunity to practice speaking
Nothing beats continuous practice when learning a new language. Your partner will probably be very willing to assist you in this, as your enhanced Dutch language skills will enhance the relationship. Communication is, after all, one of the most important pillars of a good partnership. Also, you will get to impress your lover with the knowledge gained through your studies - a win/win situation!

3- A supportive Dutch lover is likely to make a gentle, patient teacher and study aid!
With his/her heart filled with love and goodwill for you, your Dutch partner is likely to patiently and gently correct your mistakes when you speak. This goes not only for grammar, but also for accent and meaning. With his/her help, you could sound like a native in no time!

Three Reasons Why DutchPod101 helps you learn Dutch Even Faster when you’re In Love

Start with a bonus, and download the ‘How To be a Good Lover Cheat Sheet’ for FREE! (Logged-In Member Only)

1- All the Resources and Materials Will Help Both of You
Falling in love with a man or woman speaking Dutch is an opportunity for both of you to learn a new language! For this reason, every lesson, transcript, vocabulary list, and resource at DutchPod101 is translated into both English and Dutch. So, while your partner can help you learn Dutch faster, you can potentially also help him/her learn and master English!

2- Lessons Are Designed to Help You Understand and Engage with Dutch Culture
At DutchPod101, our focus is to help our students learn practical vocabulary and phrases used by everyday people in Netherlands. This means that, from your very first lesson, you can apply what you learn immediately! So, when your Dutch partner wants to go out to a restaurant, play Pokemon Go, or attend just about any social function, you have the vocabulary and phrases necessary to have a great time!

3- Access to Special Resources Dedicated to Romantic Dutch Phrases
You now have access to DutchPod101’s specially-developed sections and tools to teach you love words, phrases, and cultural insights to help you find and attract your Dutch soul mate. A personal tutor will assist you to master these brilliantly - remember to invite him/her to your wedding!

Most everyone is familiar with this day, as it is celebrated nearly everywhere the world. Yet, when exactly is April Fools’ Day? And where did April Fools come from? April Fools’ Day is observed on April 1st every year. This day of jokes and pranks is believed to have stemmed from the 16th-century calendar change in France, when New Year’s Day was moved from April 1 to January 1. This action was taken due to the adoption of the Gregorian calendar.

However, a few people were resistant to the calendar change, so they continued to observe New Year’s Day on April 1st, rather than the new date. They were referred to as the “April Fools”, and others started playing mocking tricks on them. This custom endured, and is practiced to this day around the world!

Table of Contents

1. Top One Million Words You Need to Know for April Fools’ Day
2. Dutch Phrases You Can Use on April Fools’ Day
3. Some of the Coolest April Fools’ Pranks To Play on Anybody
4. How Can DutchPod101 Make Your April Fools’ Day Special?
5. Top 1000 Most Useful Phrases in Dutch - Testing New Technology

1. Top One Million Words You Need to Know for April Fools’ Day

Do you want to know how to say April Fools’ Day in Dutch? Well, there are millions of ways and words, but here are the top one million Dutch words you really need to know! Simply click this link. Here are some of them you will find useful:

1. joke - grap maken
2. funny - grappig
3. prank - geintje
4. humor - humor
5. lie - liegen
6. fool - dwaas
7. deceptive - misleidend
8. surprise - verrassen
9. sneaky - stiekem
10. prankster - grappenmaker
11. April 1st - één april
12. play a joke - een grap uithalen

2. Dutch Phrases You Can Use on April Fools’ Day

Don’t limit yourself to practical jokes - use these April Fools’ phrases in Dutch to prank your favorite Dutch friend or colleague!

1. I learned Dutch in 1 month.
   • Ik leerde Nederlands in 1 maand.
2. All classes for today got canceled.
   • Alle lessen voor vandaag zijn uitgevallen.
3. I’m sorry, but I’ve just broken your favorite pair of glasses.
   • Het spijt me, maar ik heb zojuist je favoriete bril gebroken.
4. Someone has just hit your car.
   • Iemand rijdt net tegen je auto aan.
5. I’m getting married.
   • Ik ga trouwen.
6. You won a free ticket.
   • Je hebt een gratis kaartje gewonnen.
7. I saw your car being towed.
   • Ik zag je auto worden weggesleept.
8. They’re giving away free gift cards in front of the building.
   • Ze zijn gratis cadeaubonnen aan het weggeven aan de voorkant van het gebouw.
9. A handsome guy is waiting for you outside.
   • Een knappe man staat buiten op je te wachten.
10. A beautiful lady asked me to give this phone number to you.
    • Een mooie dame vroeg me om dit telefoonnummer aan jou geven.
11. Can you come downstairs? I have something special for you.
    • Kun je naar beneden komen? Ik heb iets speciaals voor je.
12. Thank you for your love letter this morning. I never could have guessed your feelings.
    • Dank je wel voor je liefdesbrief vanmorgen. Ik had je gevoelens nooit kunnen raden.

Choose your victims carefully, though; the idea is to get them to laugh with you, not to hurt their feelings or humiliate them in front of others. Be extra careful if you choose to play a prank on your boss - you don’t want to antagonize them with an inappropriate joke.

3. Some of the Coolest April Fools’ Pranks To Play on Anybody

Right, now that you know the top million April Fools’ words in Dutch, let’s look at some super pranks and tricks to play on friends, colleagues and family. Some April Fools ideas never grow old, while new ones are born every year.

Never joke in such a way that it hurts anyone, or humiliates them badly in front of others - the idea is for everybody to laugh and enjoy the fun! Respect is still key, no matter what day of the year it is.

1- Infestation

This trick is so simple, yet so creepy, it’s almost unbelievable. Take black paper, cut out the silhouette of a giant cockroach, a spider or another insect, and stick it inside the lampshade of a table lamp. When the lamp is switched on, it will look like a monstrous insect is sitting inside the lampshade. Or, get a whole lot of realistic-looking plastic insects, and spread them over a colleague’s desk and chair, or, at home, over the kids’ beds etc. Creep-factor: stellar.

2- Which One Doesn’t Fit?

Put the photo of a celebrity or a notorious politician in a frame, and take it to work on April Fools’ Day. Hang the photo on the staff picture wall, and wait. You’ll be surprised how long it can take for people to notice that one picture doesn’t fit.

3- Something Weird in the Restroom

At work, replace the air freshener in the restroom with something noxious like insect killer, oven cleaner or your own odious mixture in a spray bottle. Be sure to cover the bottle’s body so no one suspects a swap.

Or paint a bar of soap with clear nail polish, and leave it at the hand wash basin. It will not lather.

Or, if your workplace’s restroom has partitioned toilets with short doors, arrange jeans or trousers and shoes on all but one of the toilet covers, so it looks like every stall is occupied. Now wait for complaints, and see how long it takes for someone to figure out the April Fools’ Day prank. You’ll probably wish you had a camera inside the restroom. But, unless you don’t mind getting fired, don’t put your own recording device in there!

4- Call Me Funny

Prepare and print out a few posters with the following instructions: Lion Roar Challenge! Call this number - 123-456-7890 - and leave your best lion’s roar as voicemail! Best roarer will be announced April 10 in the cafeteria. Prize: $100. (Lion’s roar is just an example; you can use any animal call, or even a movie character’s unique sound, such as Chewbacca from Star Wars. The weirder, the funnier. Obviously!) Put the posters up in the office where most of the staff is likely to see them. Now wait for the owner of the number to visit you with murderous intent. Have a conciliatory gift ready that’s not a prank.

5- Minty Cookies

This is another simple but hugely effective prank - simply separate iced cookies, scrape off the icing, and replace it with toothpaste. Serve during lunch or tea break at work, or put in your family’s lunch boxes. Be sure to take photos of your victim’s faces when they first bite into your April Fools’ cookies.

6- Wild Shopping

At your local grocer, place a realistic-looking plastic snake or spider among the fresh vegetables. Now wait around the corner for the first yell.

7- The Oldest Trick in the Book

Don’t forget probably the oldest, yet very effective April Fools’ joke in the book - smearing hand cream or Vaseline on a door handle that most staff, family or friends are likely to use. Yuck to the max!

8- Sneeze On Me

Another golden oldie is also gross, yet harmless and utterly satisfying as a prank. Fill a small spray bottle that you can easily conceal with water. Walk past a friend, colleague or one of your kids, and fake a sneeze while simultaneously spraying them with a bit of water. Expect to be called a totally disgusting person. Add a drop of lovely smelling essential oil to the water for extra confusion.

9- Word Play Repairs

Put a fresh leek in the hand wash basin at home or work, and then tell your housemates or colleagues this: “There’s a huge leak in the restroom/bathroom basin, it’s really serious. Please can someone go have a look?!” Expect exasperation and smiles all around. Note that this prank is only likely to work where people understand English well.

10- Scary Face

Print out a very scary face on an A4 sheet of paper, and place it in a colleague’s, or one of your kid’s drawers, so it’s the first thing they see when they open the drawer. You may not be very popular for a while.

11- Wake Up To Madness

Put foamy shaving cream, or real whipped cream on your hand, and wake your kid up by tickling their nose with it. As long as they get the joke, this could be a wonderful and fun way to start April Fools’ Day.

12- Computer Prank

This one’s fabulous, if you have a bit of time to fiddle with a colleague, friend or your kid’s computer. It is most effective on a computer where most of the icons they use are on the desktop background itself (as opposed to on the bottom task bar).

Take and save a screenshot of their desktop with the icons. Set this screenshot as their background image. Now delete all the working icons. When they return to their computer, wait for the curses when no amount of clicking on the icons works.

13- Monster Under the Cup

This one will also work well anywhere people meet. Take a paper cup, and write the following on it in black pen: “Danger! Don’t lift, big spider underneath.” Place it upside-down on prominent flat surface, such as a kitchen counter, a colleague’s desk or a restaurant table. Expect some truly interesting responses.

14- Prank Door

Write in large letters on a large and noticeable piece of paper: PUSH. Tape this notice on a door that should be pulled to open, and watch the hilarious struggle of those clever souls who actually read signs.

4. How Can DutchPod101 Make Your April Fools’ Day Special?

If you happen to visit Netherlands, or if you work for any Dutch company, knowing the above Dutch prankster phrases can really lighten up your day. Showing you have a sense of humor can go a long way to cement good relationships in any situation. These phrases are at your disposal for free, as well as are these 100 core Dutch words, which you will learn how to pronounce perfectly.

Also, don’t stop at learning April Fools’ phrases in Dutch - bone up your Dutch language skills with these FREE key phrases. Yes, DutchPod101 doesn’t joke when it comes to effective, fun and easy learning.

Now, as a bonus, test our super-learning technology, and learn the Top 1000 most useful phrases in Dutch below! But that’s not all. Read on to learn how you can be eligible for large enrollment discounts at DutchPod101.

5. Top 1000 Most Useful Phrases in Dutch - testing new technology

Help us by being a language guinea pig! Listen to this video above with embedded cutting-edge, frequency-based learning technology that enables you to learn large amounts of data in record time.

• Note: This technology is in beta-phase of development, and we invite your input for fine-tuning.
• To participate: Watch the video for instructions, and leave a comment to rate it. Your comment will make you eligible for large enrollment-fee discounts. To watch the video, please click the play button.

Thank you for helping DutchPod101! We’re serious about making learning Dutch fun.

Learn a little Dutch everyday with the free Dutch Word of the Day Widget. Check back daily for more vocabulary!

olifant elephant (noun)

Ik zag een olifant in de dierentuin.
I saw an elephant at the zoo.

De baby olifant speelt met stof in een dierentuin.
The baby elephant is playing with dirt in a zoo.

grijze olifant
gray elephant

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Learn 4 honest reasons you need Dutch slang words and why they are so vital to truly learning and mastering the language.

Teachers may normally cringe at the thought of their students learning Dutch slang words. After all, slang words and phrases are typically defined as being grammatically incorrect. So why would your teacher want you to spend time learning the “wrong way” to speak Dutch? Here are 4 of the top reasons why you should study slang words and expressions when learning Dutch or any new language.

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1. Native Speakers Use Slang Expressions in Everyday Conversation

If you are going to study a foreign language and plan to use it to speak with native speakers, then you have to learn slang words and expressions. Otherwise, just using formal expressions and grammar may alienate you from native speakers and make it more difficult to establish a real connection. So it is best to at least learn some common slang words and expressions if you’re planning to meet or speak socially with someone.

2. Slang Words Are Used All Throughout Dutch Culture

If you turn on any popular Dutch TV show, listen to any song, or watch any movie, you are quickly going to see the value of learning Dutch slang phrases. Just like everyday conversations between native speakers, Dutch culture is filled with slang phrases and expressions. Without at least some knowledge of the more common slang phrases, popular culture and most conversations will be very confusing and potentially alienating.

Want to Amaze Native Speaker? Be a Good Lover? Our Vocabulary Lists are Made for You!

3. Slang Expressions Help You Better Express Your True Thoughts and Feelings

Only relying on formal grammar and vocabulary is very limiting, especially in social situations. Just like in your native language, using the appropriate Dutch slang words can help you express a broader range of emotions, thoughts, and feelings.

4. Proper Use of Slang Makes You Sound More Natural

We’ve all met foreigners who technically used formal language perfectly but still sounded odd and well….foreign. But when you use the right slang words and expressions, you will sound more natural and like a true native speaker. If you notice, even most politicians include a sprinkling of slang expressions and words throughout their speeches to help them sound more natural and to better connect with the audience.

The Dark Side of Slang Expressions

Learning Dutch slang words can indeed help you sound more natural, better understand the people and culture, and make integration much easier. However, there is a dark side: using the wrong slang expressions can also make you look foolish, uneducated, and potentially disrespectful.

But how do you know which slang words or phrases to use and when?

The truth is that you can’t learn the most modern and appropriate slang words in textbooks or formal classroom settings. By the time the information gets incorporated into a formal curriculum, it’s already outdated and no longer in use by actual Dutch people. And while you can learn current slang expressions from Dutch TV shows, movies, songs, and games, you may not understand the context. If that happens, you may use the right Dutch slang words but in the wrong situation and still look like a fool or possibly even offend someone.

Step out from the darkness and Get Your FREE PDF eBook to Start Learning Dutch!

So where can you learn current slang expressions and the right context in which to use them?

At DutchPod101, native speaking instructors create audio and video lessons that can include slang expressions and words. Our instructors provide context and examples for all the Dutch slang words used in any lesson to make sure students understand the right time and place to use them.

Dutch slang words and expressions may be grammatically incorrect but they are vital to truly understanding and immersing yourself in the culture. In fact, it will be very difficult to fully understand any movie, TV show, song, game, or even 1-on-1 conversation without knowing a few of the more common slang expressions.

However, it is important to learn the proper context and use of even popular slang expressions or you may come across as confusing, disrespectful, or uneducated.
At DutchPod101, you’ll learn how to use slang phrases and words to draw the right attention and avoid these problems.

Don’t forget to sign up for a Free Lifetime Account on DutchPod101.com to access tons of FREE lessons and features to become fluent in Dutch!

Your first Dutch word.

Remember when you knew no Dutch. At all. Then one day, somewhere, somehow, you learned how to say hello. Suddenly, you could express yourself in another language. And it didn’t stop there.

You learned a few more and picked up some grammar. Word by word, your ability to express yourself in Dutch became greater and greater.

You went from “hello” and “My name is…” to expressing opinions, starting up conversations with native Dutch speakers.

Because of more words.

All the best Dutch speakers understand this one rule: Want to speak advanced Dutch? You need more words. You need our FREE Vocab Lists!

Click here to learn more Dutch words for free!

Learn a little Dutch everyday with the free Dutch Word of the Day Widget. Check back daily for more vocabulary!

kalender calendar (noun)

Ik heb onze feestdag aangeven op de kalender.
I marked our anniversary on the calendar.

kalendermaand
calendar month

dagkalender
day calendar

een kalenderjaar
one calendar year

Own a blog or website? Share free language content with your readers with the Dutch Word of the Day with Audio Widget. Click here for instructions on how to embed and customize this free widget!

Learn a little Dutch everyday with the free Dutch Word of the Day Widget. Check back daily for more vocabulary!

morgen tomorrow (noun)

Morgen is het woensdag en de dag erna is het donderdag.
Tomorrow is Wednesday, and the day after tomorrow is Thursday.

Morgen is het mijn verjaardag.
Tomorrow is my birthday.

Het wordt morgen zonnig.
It will be sunny tomorrow.

Zie je morgen!
See you tomorrow!

morgenmiddag
tomorrow afternoon

morgen om tien over tien (10:10)
tomorrow at 10:10

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