From socialising to integrating: a crash course in social Dutch
Welcome to the Netherlands! A country that is not only known for its coffee consumption, but also for its love of a good drink. Whether you have just moved here or have been living here for a while, the pub is the place to meet people and practise your Dutch.
We will give you a crash course in “Social Dutch” so that you feel completely at home at the bar.
Ordering without stress
Once you arrive at the pub, it's time for the first (and most important) step: ordering a drink! Don't worry: your first order may feel nerve-wracking, but it's easier than you think. Follow this simple step-by-step plan and you'll have a delicious thirst-quencher in your hands in no time:
1. Find a spot at the bar
Stand quietly where the bartender can see you. No need to wave or shout – they'll come to you.
2. Listen to the question
You'll usually hear: "Wat mag het zijn?" or "Wat wil je drinken?" ("What will it be?"). This is your moment!
3. Order with one simple sentence
Remember these magic words: "Mag ik een...?" (Can I have a...?). Complete this sentence with what you want: "Mag ik een biertje?", "Mag ik een cola?" Then you'll have a delicious drink in front of you in no time!
The art of chatting
Your drink is in front of you, you've had a little something to start… now what? Time to socialise! The good news: Dutch people are very approachable and always open to a chat. So you can just walk up to someone without it seeming strange.
Looking for a good icebreaker question? Check out the Buddy voor Elkaar Conversation Starters game. This game is full of questions that are guaranteed to lead to interesting conversations. From light-hearted and funny to surprising and personal – there's something for every situation. And it's also an excellent way to practise your Dutch!
Pub jargon: talk like a local
With a drink in your hand and a good conversation going, you can't really go wrong. But sometimes you hear expressions that deserve extra explanation. That's why we've listed the most important ones for you.
Proost
The Dutch version of ‘Cheers!’. The ritual: clink glasses and look everyone in the eye. According to tradition, this brings good luck. And don't forget to say it out loud!
Gezellig
It's a feeling that all Dutch people know, but one that is difficult to translate. According to the dictionary: a pleasant, cosy and social atmosphere. If you know this feeling, you can truly call yourself Dutch!
Nog een rondje
Literally: ‘Another round’. When you hear this, someone is getting another round of drinks for the whole group. Then it's definitely ‘gezellig’! Tip: if someone buys a round, it's polite to buy a round later on as well.
Biertje
In addition to “biertje”, the Dutch have a whole host of synonyms for this beloved drink: goudgele rakker, pilsje, koude kletser, pintje, vaasje, fluitje. Enough variety to get by!
So now you have all the knowledge you need to impress everyone in your local pub. So take that step, order that drink and make contact! Before you know it, you'll feel right at home in the Netherlands. Good luck, and see you in the pub. Proost!
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