Some Dutch words can't be translated. Others seem ordinary but carry a world of feeling. When you start noticing them, you discover that language isn't just a tool: it's a landscape.
When you learn Dutch, it's easy to be your own harshest teacher. You correct yourself constantly, apologise for mistakes, and sigh when you forget a word. But what if kindness, not perfection, is what makes you fluent?
When you're at a café in the Netherlands, knowing how to order politely makes all the difference. Luckily, it's simple and very rewarding to practice.
Talking about the weather is a favourite topic in the Netherlands and a perfect way to start small conversations! The Dutch love to comment on the rain, the sun, or the wind.
Talking about what you like or dislike is essential in conversation. In Dutch, use houden van to express likes.
Prepositions tell us where things are. In Dutch, common ones are in, op, onder, naast.
Be sure to listen to podcasts on topics that interest you and read the transcripts. The transcripts of the podcast episodes of YourDutchCoach can be found on this site.
Read a piece of text and record it. Listen to your recording. Do you sound like a real 'Dutchie'?
Find someone who wants to speak Dutch with you. Agree with each other that you will only speak Dutch for a whole day instead of, for example, English.
Learning a new language should be fun! Listen to Dutch music. Write down what you hear. Compare your text with the original text. Then sing along.
