Dutch pronunciation
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Some letters, vowels and combinations of them are pronounced very different in Dutch and hard to compare to other languages. Below you will find an explanation on how to pronounce them and examples.
The pronunciation of Dutch vowels depends on if it is an open or closed syllable. It is a closed syllable when it is between two consonants. An open syllable is when it is not.
The Dutch language also contains combinations of vowels, which are pronounced differently than the syllables on their own.
Combination | Pronunciation | Example | Translation |
---|---|---|---|
'ee' | Pronounced as 'e', but longer. | Zij eten veel kaas. | They eat a lot of cheese. |
'oe' | Pronounced as 'oo' in 'boot'. | Ik heb een leuke groep. | I have a nice group. |
'eu' | Pronounced as 'ur' in 'hurt' with rounded lips. | De leuke jeugd. | The nice youth. |
'ei/ij' | Pronounced as a combination of 'eh' and 'ee'. | Hij is erg blij. | He is very happy. |
'uu' | Pronounced as as the short 'u', but longer. | Zij betalen huur. | They pay rent. |
'ui' | Pronounced as a short 'a' followed by a 'u'. | De ui laat mij huilen. | The onion makes me cry. |
'uw' | Pronounced as the short 'u', but the tongue and lips have to be moved more to the front. After that a 'w 'has to be added. | Uw dochter gaf mij een duw. | Your (formal) daughter pushed me. |
'ou' | Pronounced similar to the 'ou' in pronounced. | Ik zeg dat ik van je hou. | I am telling you that I love you. |
'aa' | Pronounced as the short 'a', but longer. | Ze heeft blond haar. | She has blonde hair. |
'au' | Pronounced as ow in 'how'. | Het vlees is rauw. | The meat is raw. |
'aai' | Pronounced as the English pronoun 'I'. | De haai zwemt in de baai. | The shark swims in bay. |
'eeuw' | Pronounced as a long 'e' and followed by 'uw'. | Ik schreeuw de longen uit mijn lijf. | I scream from the top of my longs. |
'oo' | Pronounced as the 'o' in hope, but longer. | Hij heeft hoop. | He has hope. |
'ooi' | Pronounced as a long 'o' and followed by an 'i'. | De vogel vliegt uit de kooi. | The bird flies out of the cage. |
'oei' | Pronounced as a combination of 'oe' and 'ie'. | In de zee drijft een boei. | A buoy is floating in the sea. |
'ie' | Pronounced as the 'e' in the English personal pronoun 'we'. | Hij zei dat niet. | He did not say that. |
'ieuw' | Pronounced as a combination of 'ie' and 'uw'. | Vissen hebben kieuwen. | Fish have gills. |
Listen to the audio text to hear the correct pronunciation.
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The combination of some consonants are pronounced differently than when they are on there own.
Combination | Pronunciation | Example | Translation |
---|---|---|---|
'c' |
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'ch' |
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'ck' | Pronounced like the 'k'. | Diederick speelt hockey. | Diederick plays hockey. |
'ng' | Pronounced like the 'ng' in the word 'long' in English. | De lange kring van slingers werd verbroken. | The long circle of garlands was broken. |
'nj' | Pronounced like the 'ni' in the English word 'onion'. | Het oranje team gaat naar Spanje. | The orange team goes to Spain. |
'sch' |
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'sj' | Pronounced as the 'sh' sound in English. | Sjoerd sjoemelde met de winstcijfers. | Sjoerd defrauded the profit figures. |
'tj' | Pronounced as the 'ch' sound in English. | Het hutje was natgeregend. | The cabin was wet, because of the rain. |
Listen to the audio text to hear the correct pronunciation.
The consonant 'c' is pronounced as 'k' after the a, o, u, l or r. After e, i or ij the 'c' is pronounced as 's'.
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As non-native parents it is certainly not easy to teach your children Dutch or to help with the fluency of the new language. Who wants some extra exercise for his children? I can help you with that. As their vocabulary becomes more and more extensive and their sentences become increasingly fluid, your children will get more and more self-confident. To speak well the Dutch language will surely benefit them now and later.
Do your children need some help with their homework, especially with their Dutch, then I can help with that.
Even as non-native-speaking adults, it is sometimes difficult to have enough exercise. That is why also adults who want to make progress in speaking the Dutch language are welcome here! We can practice the everyday language together.
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Liesbet's teaching is progressive and adapted to the level of the student. His working method is very efficient, dynamic and focused on areas for improvement. The material used is varied: texts, videos, grammar exercises, pronunciation and vocabularies (synonyms, antonyms, nuances, etc.). The lessons are always different and never look like. Punctuality and seriousness. I highly recommend.
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Do you want to improve your Dutch for work and daily life in the Netherlands? I help young expats enhance their Dutch skills, so you can speak and write with more confidence. Not because you have to, but because you want to! My lessons are practical and focused on what you truly need, whether you’re a beginner or already at a higher level.
What you can expect:
Lessons for beginners to advanced learners (B2 to C1), with a methodical and structured approach
Exercises that fit your work and life in the Netherlands
Focus on building confidence and keeping your self-respect, as you find your place as a new resident
Long-term collaboration, aimed at lasting progress and making the most of your new country
In my lessons, you’ll not only learn the language but also how to communicate your unique value and fully use the opportunities in your new home. This way, you’ll get to know the Netherlands better and make your own special contribution!
Ready to improve your Dutch? Contact me and let’s explore the possibilities!
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Monique is fantastisch! We have been taking lessons since January to prepare for the Inburgeringexam and she has done a great job teaching and coaching us. Her approach, sense of humor, and clear communication make every class a treat. I highly recommend signing up for lessons with Monique!
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Hello,
I'm offering informal Dutch and English lessons based on conversation and will conduct my lessons for as much as possible in the target language.
I use text, weblinks to tv shows to get us talking and am a fan of the TPRS method.
There's a lot of information on that method online. Basically it's getting to know the structure Dutch and English through simple conversation. (questions about 1 or several sentences on any topic)
I have some useful weblinks to tv shows in Dutch (with subtitles in Dutch) adjusted to your level and the shows are entertaining too. :-)
We can discuss the shows preferably in the target language of course.
I can explain some grammar too if needed and have articles and books ready to read from. This again will be adjusted to your proficiency. But of course if you'd like to focus on a topic which has your interest that is possible as well. This makes it more personal and more fun.
I've been teaching for about a year now on another platform to students from all over the world and really enjoy having the experience again as I used to be a vocal coach back in the days when I attended conservatory in the Netherlands.
I hope to see you here on Co language. :-)
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I am very satisfied with the lessons with Less. very understandable and interesting. highly recommend)
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English teacher with 13 years teaching experience in Italy. Speaks English and Italian.
Hi, I'm Jason, I'm English and live in Central Italy where I teach English to students of all levels, all ages and all abilities. English for school, for exams or tests, for work or for business.
My methods are based on building your confidence to speak English, developing your listening skills so you can understand English and helping you understand the grammar rules of the English language.
Why in this way? Because my students have the best results when they are able to speak in English as soon as possible. Then, when you can converse in English and understand simple conversation you can develop all your language skills very quickly.
Of course, for some students, grammar and written English is a priority and I can help you develop these skills first if that is what you need.
For others they need to learn specific vocabulary for their work, I have given courses in business, medicine and tourism that can be adapted for all types of work situations.
I am teaching students from 3 to 70 years old and my lessons are adapted for every individual so they have the best opportunity to realize their goals.
If you are interested then please contact me for a chat and a free trial lesson.
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I have started with English courses because I needed to improve my English language for work. After two weeks of lessons with Jason, I have noticed that my langauge skills have improved a lot. Jason is always well prepared for each lesson and he has a great, interesting and useful teaching materials. Jason has a good speaking and teaching style which keeps me interested during lessons. Thanks Jason for the great lessons ! I highly recommend Jason as great teacher which gives his best for the students !
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I prepare lessons for each student individually based on their specific needs for each language. For example: if you language need is Business English, I prepare your lesson on what you need to do your work. If your language need is to practice your speaking skills, your lesson will be based on themes that you are interested in. If your language need is to learn English from scratch, we will discuss a program to get you started from the beginning to when you can speak English with confidence.
My tutoring also focusses on the development of my students. Through my classes, I aim to stimulate creativity, analytical skills, improve business skills, understanding of different cultures, problem-solving, communication skills, enhance my student's opportunities in worldwide jobs and to expand their worlds globally. Lessons are individually prepared for each student to learn grammar, vocabulary, speaking, listening, pronunciation and reading.
More about me:
I have been in tutoring and training for 15 years and I follow a communicative approach with interesting themes and discussions that draw on your life experiences and everyday situations.
I was born in South Africa and live close to Cape Town. I speak both Afrikaans and English as native languages. I studied Human Resources and specialized in training. In 2015 I added a TEFL/TESOL certificate to my qualifications. I was given a traditional African name by a student group in South Africa and they named me Noluthandu which means “a person who likes people.” This was a great honor for me. I am very much excited to walk the exciting path with you while learning a new language. Remember, it takes small steps to reach the top of the mountain of success.
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Marge is a very kind, positive and cheerful person. Every time she offers interesting and practical subjects we build our lessons around. The way she prizing me is a great motivation to move forward!
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Do you want to improve your Dutch for work and daily life in the Netherlands? I help young expats enhance their Dutch skills, so you can speak and write with more confidence. Not because you have to, but because you want to! My lessons are practical and focused on what you truly need, whether you’re a beginner or already at a higher level.
What you can expect:
Lessons for beginners to advanced learners (B2 to C1), with a methodical and structured approach
Exercises that fit your work and life in the Netherlands
Focus on building confidence and keeping your self-respect, as you find your place as a new resident
Long-term collaboration, aimed at lasting progress and making the most of your new country
In my lessons, you’ll not only learn the language but also how to communicate your unique value and fully use the opportunities in your new home. This way, you’ll get to know the Netherlands better and make your own special contribution!
Ready to improve your Dutch? Contact me and let’s explore the possibilities!
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Monique M. is an amazing teacher. Till now, we have only had one lesson together but I can say that it was reallt constructive to determine my learning process. I highly recommend her!
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Do you want to improve your Dutch for work and daily life in the Netherlands? I help young expats enhance their Dutch skills, so you can speak and write with more confidence. Not because you have to, but because you want to! My lessons are practical and focused on what you truly need, whether you’re a beginner or already at a higher level.
What you can expect:
Lessons for beginners to advanced learners (B2 to C1), with a methodical and structured approach
Exercises that fit your work and life in the Netherlands
Focus on building confidence and keeping your self-respect, as you find your place as a new resident
Long-term collaboration, aimed at lasting progress and making the most of your new country
In my lessons, you’ll not only learn the language but also how to communicate your unique value and fully use the opportunities in your new home. This way, you’ll get to know the Netherlands better and make your own special contribution!
Ready to improve your Dutch? Contact me and let’s explore the possibilities!
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Monique is such a great teacher! Her genuine kindness is a huge asset to learning a new language—I highly recommend :)
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Hello,
I am a multilingual teacher with experience in teaching French to German, Japanese, English, Bulgarian and Italian-speaking students, etc. (levels A1 to C1).
I have been teaching French for 8 years in Luxemburg and now in Bulgaria for 4 years, to teenagers, housewives, businessmen, employees, doctors, etc. I can also help you with DELF and DALF preparation. I give lessons via Skype, Zoom and Microsoft Teams in several countries.
My teaching method for each class : a grammar point together with listening, a lot of speaking with conversation questions or games. While you speak, I write all the new words you need to express yourself, illustrated by pictures or translated in your language.
I do my best to make you feel comfortable to speak and for you to have a pleasant time. According to me, using humour will help you learn more easily.
Whether you need to learn French for business, integration in a French-speaking country or studying, I will be happy to help you. Do not hesitate to contact me for a free trial lesson.
Looking forward to hearing from you,
Katia
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Katia is a very patient teacher with solid fundamentals. Strong fundamentals & dynamic to suit my progress in learning french!
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Do you want to improve your Dutch for work and daily life in the Netherlands? I help young expats enhance their Dutch skills, so you can speak and write with more confidence. Not because you have to, but because you want to! My lessons are practical and focused on what you truly need, whether you’re a beginner or already at a higher level.
What you can expect:
Lessons for beginners to advanced learners (B2 to C1), with a methodical and structured approach
Exercises that fit your work and life in the Netherlands
Focus on building confidence and keeping your self-respect, as you find your place as a new resident
Long-term collaboration, aimed at lasting progress and making the most of your new country
In my lessons, you’ll not only learn the language but also how to communicate your unique value and fully use the opportunities in your new home. This way, you’ll get to know the Netherlands better and make your own special contribution!
Ready to improve your Dutch? Contact me and let’s explore the possibilities!
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Monique is a very experienced teacher. She has very good communication and teaching skills. She shapes the lesson according to your learning wishes and helps you to get the best from it.
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Hello,I would love to help you improve your knowledge of English.I adapt the lessons following your wishes : are you a beginner and need to get some basic knowledge with grammar and easy texts or do you want to improve your conversation skills. I can help you either way.Looking forward to meeting you !
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We spoke in Dutch for most of the lesson which was ideal for me. Francoise was very patient and helpful.
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My name is Job and Dutch is my native language.
I can help you with all the basics of speaking, reading and writing. I can also help you pass exams that require dutch, like your inburgeringscursus (NT2a or CNAVT). I can teach students from A1 up to B2 level. Also, I passed for my TEFL for the English language, so there will be no problem with explaining the Dutch language.
Discipline is the key to effective learning. I'm extremely organized, well-prepared for each of my lessons and I will never miss a single class. I have tons of study materials, which I hand out to my students after the class and customize lesson plans with.
Each learning objective is met by the end of the lesson. Grammar and a sufficient range of vocabulary are impossible to overlook, and I value it in my approach.
Dutch grammar can be tricky for non-native speakers. I go over concepts repeatedly until my students get the hang of it.
Why choose me as your tutor? I am:
--> Students passed for their exams with help of my lessons.
--> Organised; always prepared for every lesson.
--> Patient: we can continue as long as we need.
--> Friendly
--> Enthusiastic
--> Like meeting new people from the rest of the world.
My Methodology
My classes are normally up to one hour. It's possible to have longer lessons If you prefer this.
So far I have done over 1000+ lessons and gathered sufficient information that is useful in order to pass your exams or to get familiar with the language.
My materials comprise of speaking, writing, grammar, reading and listening. During our lessons we shall cover all of these aspects.
Here's a normal lesson plan with me if you're a beginner:
- Vocabulary (5 min): discussing new learned verbs.
- Pronounciation (10 min): reading a short story and building on vocabulary and articulation.
- Writing (15 min): Q and A sessions where I write your answers down and further discuss sentence structures and mistakes.
- Speaking (20 min): eloquently answering questions which are commonly asked in the exams.
-Listening (10 min): listening to an audio of a short story and answering questions.
The lesson plan varies according to your level of Dutch. Naturally, more advanced speakers focus on speaking and writing.
I always make sure I'm prepared before our lesson starts, so we can start right away and make the most of your time.
If you wish to have a well-organized and disciplined tutor who can help you achieve your goals and express yourself authentically - you can count on me!
I will make sure you're on track and every minute of your learning experience is valuable. Dutch is a pretty straight-forward language, and so am I - do ask me anything you'd like to know!
If you wish to have a well-organized and disciplined tutor who can help you achieve your goals and express yourself authentically - you can count on me!
I will make sure you're on track and every minute of your learning experience is valuable. Dutch is a pretty straight-forward language, and so am I - do ask me anything you'd like to know!
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Thanks to Job I feel more confident with the Dutch language. He has a lot of different materials to practice grammar, reading, speaking and writing. so far i did 20 lessons with Job and I will definitly continue. I recommend job as a tutor to everyone who wants to know the basics of language or need to prepare for exams.
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Hi! I live in Germany since 2014, I live in the Frankfurt am Main area. I teach German to refugees since the beginning of 2017 and I have been teaching Dutch at several language schools, at peoples homes and in-house at several companies. I passed the C1-level Test for German at the Goethe Institut.
It is my goal to adapt my lessons as much as possible to the wishes of the student. This means that, besides offering regular learning methods, I am open to initiatives like talking about subjects that are of interest to the student, for example reading and discussing articles, watching and discussing educational videos and/or current happenings in the world.
I look forward to meeting you online!
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Marlijn is a great teacher. I feel much more confident to talk in Dutch. She is very helpful and patient.
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Hi!
My name is Natalia and I am a teacher of Spanish as a foreign language. I was born in Uruguay and I’m currently living in Spain.
I have a degree in International Relations and I have been developing my career as a teacher.
My classes are designed following a natural and communicative, action-oriented approach. In each class you will be able to participate, think, give your opinion and thus you will develop step by step all the necessary skills to learn and master the language.
One-on-one Spanish lessons with me include:
- Authentic materials adapted to your needs and interests.
- Exercises and activities that will keep you motivated.
- Feedback and tips to progress.
If you…
- would love to travel through Latin America or Spain
- need to improve your pronunciation in Spanish, your fluency, your comprehension
- would like to invest in your professional career and you know that speaking Spanish is essential
- need Spanish to do business.
- or just want to learn this language because you like it
Book a free trial lesson with me and start learning this beautiful language!
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Natalia is a lovely and passionate teacher who clearly adores teaching and sharing her taste for languages to her pupils. She knows how to tailor them to her students, helping them to reach their goals. She adapts the subjects and themes to their tastes and is always available for help. I truly recommend her to anyone who wants to learn Spanish in a fun, informative way!
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I was born in the Netherlands and was living there for most of my life. I did a bachelor in Economics and Languages. That means I can help anyone with Dutch. From Recreational to Business use of Dutch, I will make sure we get to your goals.
Furthermore I have been using my second language, English, for many years while I was studying in England at NENE university in Northampton. I worked for a US based company for almost 10 years. I was teaching English in India and Nepal. Currently I am residing in Poland.
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Jeff is a wonderful teacher. He listens well and understood my personal needs if it comes to learning Dutch. Highly recommended!
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Good individual help and giving personal attention. She always had a way of communicating info so you could understand.
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