Language and culture
On this page, you can read more about Dutch language and culture: from expressions and puns to public holidays and famous people from Dutch history. You can also read more about Dutch artists and Dutch manners.
Information
Discover the Dutch language: expressions, proverbs and humour
The Dutch language is rich in expressions, proverbs and jokes involving a double meaning. Imagery, directness and irony play an important role. In this article you will read what all of these mean.
William of Orange: the Father of the Nation
William of Orange is regarded as the 'Vader des Vaderlands' (Father of the Nation) and played a key role in the founding of the Netherlands. His struggle against Spain marked the beginning of an independent and sovereign Netherlands. Read here to find out who he was.
Aletta Jacobs: the Netherlands' first female doctor who fought for women's rights
Aletta Jacobs changed the history of the Netherlands. She became a doctor at a time when women had almost no opportunity to study. Then she campaigned for equal rights for women. In this article you will discover who she was and what she accomplished.
Dutch expressions: how is an 'appel' (apple) used in the Dutch language?
The Dutch language is full of expressions, including about food. For example, the word "appel" (apple) is common and has different meanings. In this article you will read about different expressions and what they mean. We also explain the role of expressions in the Netherlands.
Willem Drees: the prime minister who built the Netherlands after the war
Willem Drees is seen as the person who rebuilt the Netherlands after World War II. He was prime minister for 10 years and was known as a calm and reliable leader. Many people called him Father Drees. In this article you can read more about Willem Drees and why he was so important.
Dutch expressions: how is an 'ei' (egg) used in the Dutch language?
In Dutch there are many expressions with food. The word "ei" (egg) is often seen. In these expressions it is usually not literally about an egg, but about something that is easy, small or valuable.
Holidays in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, there are official holidays and traditional celebrations. Some days are national holidays by law. In this article you will find an overview of important holidays, what they mean and how they are celebrated.
Learn better Dutch with the NOS Journaal in Makkelijke Taal
Would you like to learn Dutch and keep up to date with the news in the Netherlands at the same time? If so, you can watch the NOS Journaal in Makkelijke Taal every weekday.
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