The Netherlands

Language notes

English for the Dutch



Dutch, difficult for anglophones in a particular way


An English-speaking person trying to speak Dutch finds that a high degree of competence is required. The Dutch speak English, so you can't use het Nederlands unless you speak it relatively well or just don't speak English.

A Dutch perspective

"English is so easy," he said, "because it's basically simplified French...."


This may be why the language has a reputation as especially difficult.

It can be difficult merely to conduct simple transactions without prompting a switch, which is a practiced and unconsidered skill for the Dutch. Every phrase is a delicate moment, at first, learning Dutch. For more complex interactions and relationships, English will be the common language until you're proficient.

This makes learning Dutch in the natural fashion a slow process, for the anglophone.