When learning Dutch, starting with the most useful words can give you a solid foundation and help you communicate basic ideas effectively. Here are some of the most essential Dutch words to get you started on your language learning journey.
Dankjewel – Thank you
Kan je me de weg wijzen? Dankjewel!
This word is used to express gratitude and is one of the first polite phrases you should learn.
Alstublieft – Please (formal) / Here you go
Kunt u me dat boek geven, alstublieft?
This versatile word is used both to say “please” when asking for something and “here you go” when giving something.
Ja – Yes
Wil je koffie? Ja, graag.
An affirmative response, “ja” is a simple yet crucial word in any language.
Nee – No
Heb je honger? Nee, bedankt.
Just as important as being able to say “yes,” being able to say “no” is equally important.
Goedemorgen – Good morning
Goedemorgen! Hoe heb je geslapen?
A friendly greeting to use when you see someone for the first time in the morning.
Goedenavond – Good evening
Goedenavond, mag ik een tafel voor twee reserveren?
Used to greet someone during the evening time.
Tot ziens – Goodbye
Het was leuk je te ontmoeten, tot ziens!
A polite way to say goodbye.
Sorry – Sorry
Sorry, dat was mijn fout.
An apology, this word is useful when you make a mistake or need to get past someone.
Hallo – Hello
Hallo, hoe gaat het met je?
A basic greeting that can be used at any time of day.
Helpen – To help
Kan ik je helpen met die tassen?
A verb that expresses the action of assisting someone.
Eten – To eat / Food
We gaan om 6 uur eten.
Whether you’re talking about the verb “to eat” or referring to “food” in general, this word will prove very useful.
Drinken – To drink
Zou je iets willen drinken?
Used to describe the action of drinking, whether it be water, coffee, or something else.
Waar – Where
Waar is de dichtstbijzijnde supermarkt?
Knowing how to ask where things are is crucial when navigating Dutch-speaking areas.
Wanneer – When
Wanneer begint de film?
This word is used to inquire about the time when something will occur.
Hoe – How
Hoe kom ik bij het station?
Useful for asking about the manner in which something is done or the condition of someone.
Waarom – Why
Waarom ben je verdrietig?
A question word that helps you understand reasons or causes.
Wie – Who
Wie is jouw favoriete schrijver?
Useful for identifying people or asking about someone’s identity.
Wat – What
Wat is jouw naam?
A fundamental question word that can be used in numerous situations.
Kunnen – Can / To be able to
Kunnen we morgen afspreken?
Expresses ability or possibility.
Moeten – Must / Have to
Ik moet nu gaan, sorry.
Indicates necessity or obligation.
Willen – Want
Ik wil graag een kopje koffie, alstublieft.
Used to express a desire or wish.
Houden van – To love
Ik hou van jou.
An important phrase for expressing deep affection.
Learning these words can help you navigate a variety of basic interactions in Dutch, paving the way for more complex language skills. As you expand your vocabulary, you’ll find it easier to connect with Dutch speakers and enhance your understanding of the culture.
