Quick Dutch Lesson 2: Alstublieft vs Alsjeblieft

Do you sometimes get confused about when to say alstublieft or alsjeblieft? It's a common question for learners, but it's easy once you know the rule.

Tip: Use alstublieft for formal situations (like a shop or office) and alsjeblieft for informal situations (friends, family).

Examples:
Can I have coffee, please? → Mag ik koffie, alstublieft?
Here's the book → Hier is het boek, alsjeblieft
Could you help me, please? → Kunt u mij helpen, alstublieft?
Give me the pen, please → Geef mij de pen, alsjeblieft

Mini Exercise – Your Turn!
Make this polite in Dutch: Give me the menu, please.

Answer:

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Mag ik de menukaart, alstublieft?

See how easy that was? Once you remember the formal vs informal rule, your Dutch will immediately sound natural and polite.