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Language of Netherlands
The Netherlands is a small but culturally rich country in Europe known for its vibrant language, Dutch. Dutch is spoken by most people in the Netherlands, and it has an interesting mix of sounds due to its Germanic roots. Let's explore Dutch language and its unique features!
Test Your Knowledge
About the Script
Dutch uses the same alphabet as English, but a few letters make surprising sounds: the 'g' is a soft gargle deep in the throat, and 'ij' sounds like the 'ay' in 'pay'.
Script Explorer
Dutch sounds in the Latin alphabet
Dutch uses the same letters as English, but a few make surprising sounds. The famous 'g' is made deep in your throat, like a soft gargle, and 'ij' sounds like the 'ay' in 'pay'.
Phrase Cards
Fun Fact
The Dutch founded New York and first called it New Amsterdam. Many places there still carry Dutch names: Brooklyn comes from the town of Breukelen, and Harlem from the city of Haarlem.
Fun Fact
The Netherlands has more bicycles than people!
Cultural Note
Dutch is not only spoken in the Netherlands: it is also the language of Flanders (in Belgium), Suriname in South America, and the Caribbean islands of Aruba, Curacao, and Sint Maarten. Many people in the Netherlands also speak English very well.
Vocabulary
Can you compare how 'thank you' is said in Dutch and another language you know?
