Most of the people living in Amsterdam city speak English and they wouldn’t mind communicating with you in English or Dutch. Therefore, the people who speak English really doesn‘t have any functional reason to learn the Dutch language prior to their Amsterdam private tours. However, learning the Dutch language would clearly show your hosts about how much you price their language and culture.
Below are some important Dutch phrases to learn for showing off on your trip to the magnificent city.
Phrases for Greeting
On your visit to Amsterdam, you may come across most of these greeting phrases and words. It is a traditional and customary thing to express your tender feelings in return when being greeted. Below is a list of Dutch phrases that you can use in your Amsterdam tours.
- The Dutch word Hallo which is pronounced “HAH low” in English. This is the universal expression for greeting which you could use at almost any place and time.
- The Dutch word for Hi is Hoi pronounced as (“hoy”). This is a casual expression you use as you meet people whom you already know.
- The Dutch people use Goedemorgen pronounced as (“KHOO duh MORE khen”) for Good morning. This is a formal way to greet people you don’t know. You could use this phrase when entering shops, museums, hotels, restaurants, etc. You may also find people using the word morgen for short.
- To wish Good afternoon the Dutch use the expression Goedemiddag pronounced as (“KHOO duh midakh”). It is used to greet people during the midday. Some people also shorten this to middag.
- For Good evening, they use the term Goedenavond pronounced as (“KHOO dun AH fohnt”). This phrase too is used in the same way as the above but for another time of the day. They don’t use any short word for this one.
Phrases for Goodbyes
People of Amsterdam use these phrases while leaving a café or store.
- Dag pronounced as (“dakh”) meaning Bye. This is commonly used to bid goodbye. The term is appropriate to be used with almost anyone. You could also use it as an expression of greeting.
- The Dutch phrase Tot ziens pronounced as (“toht zeens”) is figuratively used saying See you later. This is a cheerful expression which is appropriate to be used with anyone. You could hear a restaurant or shop worker using this phrase when you leave.
- Doei or doeg pronounced as (“dooey” or “dookh”) used for saying Bye. This expression is used commonly with people you are familiar with.