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English is widely spoken in the Netherlands, but since Dutch is the official language, knowing a few basic Dutch expressions will go a long way in ensuring a smoother visit and better integration.

Check out these basic Dutch expressions that will help you ask the right question to the right person :

Hello – Hallo

Good morning/ Good afternoon/ Good evening – Goedemorgen/ Goedemiddag/ Goedeavond

Thank you – Bedankt

Time – Tijd

Map – Kaart

What is your name? – Wat is uw naam?

I am [your name] – Ik ben …

Where do you come from? – Waar komt u vandaan?

I come from [your country] – Ik kom uit …

Can you help me please? – Kunt u mij helpen alsjeblieft?

Do you speak English? – Spreekt u Engels?

I do not speak Dutch – Ik  spreek geen Nederlands

Read more:
The Dutch way: first impressions of The Netherlands
They’re special, my people: Dutch impressions of The Netherlands
Patat Frites: Dutch or Belgian?

About the author

An Indian expat in the Netherlands, Arwa Lokhandwala is a freelance writer, writing on travel, culture and expat related issues. A voracious reader, a curious traveler, and an amateur photographer, she has featured in a number of online publications including the Lonely Planet. She loves people, colors, festivals, and cultures. Read about her expat tales and travel adventures on her blog - Orangesplaash.