Dutch isn’t the hardest language to learn, but it’s not exactly a walk in the park either. If you’re just starting, memorising these 50 everyday words will save you from awkward silences and confused stares. Let’s get you sounding vaguely human in Dutch.
The Absolute Basics
- Hallo – Because you’ve got to start somewhere.
- Dank je – Say this after someone hands you a stroopwafel. Manners matter.
- Ja / Nee – Yes and no. Useful when avoiding overpriced tourist traps.
- Alsjeblieft – Means both 'please' and 'here you go'. Efficiency at its finest.
- Sorry – For when you inevitably bump into a cyclist in Amsterdam.
Food & Drink (Priorities, Right?)
Brood
/broːt/“Bread”
The Dutch eat bread for breakfast, lunch, and sometimes dinner. Embrace the carbs.
Kaas
/kaːs/“Cheese”
Gouda, Edam, Leiden - you’re in cheese heaven now.
- Bier – Because you’re in the land of Heineken (though locals might judge you for drinking it).
- Koffie – Dutch coffee culture is serious business.
- Lekker – Means 'tasty', but also 'nice' or 'good'. Versatile, like your appreciation for fries with mayo.
Survival Words
These words will prevent you from getting stranded, overcharged, or lost in a Albert Heijn supermarket.
- Waar is…? – 'Where is…?' Follow this with 'het toilet' or 'de trein', and you’re golden.
- Hoeveel kost dit? – 'How much does this cost?' Essential for markets where haggling is a sport.
- Ik begrijp het niet – 'I don’t understand.' Use this when Dutch people switch to rapid-fire sentences.
- Help! – It’s the same in Dutch. Hopefully, you won’t need it.
Bonus: Words That Sound Funny (To English Speakers)
Dutch has some gems that’ll make you smirk. Use them wisely.
Poep
/pup/“Poop”
Yes, it means exactly what you think. No, don’t giggle.
Frikandel
/ˌfri.kɑnˈdɛl/“A type of sausage”
A deep-fried mystery meat stick. Tastes better than it sounds.
Want more quirky language guides? Check out our article on Vietnamese words that sound like English for more linguistic fun.
Final Tip
Dutch people appreciate effort, even if your pronunciation makes you sound like a drunk toddler. Practice these words, and you’ll survive - and maybe even thrive - in the Netherlands.
