Bedeutung
Encouraging a positive attitude.
Kultureller Hintergrund
The phrase reflects 'nuchterheid' (pragmatism). Instead of grand promises, the Dutch offer a realistic 'make something of it'. In Flanders, the phrase is also used, but 'Maak er iets moois van' is perhaps even more common, reflecting a slightly more 'Bourgondisch' (epicurean) touch. It is often used at the end of meetings to signal that the planning phase is over and the 'doing' phase has begun. On Instagram, you'll see this phrase on 'aesthetic' photos of coffee or study sessions, often shortened to just 'Maak er wat van ✨'.
The 'Er' Rule
Always use 'er' when you don't name the specific thing you are making something of. It's the secret to sounding native.
Don't be too pushy
If someone is really sad, saying this can sound like you're telling them to 'just get over it.' Use with caution.
Bedeutung
Encouraging a positive attitude.
The 'Er' Rule
Always use 'er' when you don't name the specific thing you are making something of. It's the secret to sounding native.
Don't be too pushy
If someone is really sad, saying this can sound like you're telling them to 'just get over it.' Use with caution.
The Tile Wisdom
This is a classic 'tegeltjeswijsheid'. You might see it on actual ceramic tiles in Dutch homes.
Add an adjective
To make it warmer, add 'moois' (beautiful) or 'leuks' (fun): 'Maak er wat moois van!'
Teste dich selbst
Vul het juiste woord in (er / het / van).
Het is een moeilijke opdracht, maar we gaan ___ wat ___ maken.
In the phrase 'er wat van maken', 'er' and 'van' are the required components.
In welke situatie zeg je 'Maak er wat van!'?
Kies de beste situatie:
This phrase is used for encouragement during new beginnings or events.
Maak de dialoog af.
A: 'Ik heb zin in mijn vakantie, maar het hotel is een beetje oud.' B: 'Ach, het weer is goed, dus...'
This is the standard form of the expression used to encourage someone to look at the bright side.
Welke zin is grammaticaal correct?
Kies de juiste zin:
In the perfect tense, 'er' usually comes as early as possible, often right after the auxiliary verb or subject.
🎉 Ergebnis: /4
Visuelle Lernhilfen
Er vs. Het
Aufgabensammlung
4 AufgabenHet is een moeilijke opdracht, maar we gaan ___ wat ___ maken.
In the phrase 'er wat van maken', 'er' and 'van' are the required components.
Kies de beste situatie:
This phrase is used for encouragement during new beginnings or events.
A: 'Ik heb zin in mijn vakantie, maar het hotel is een beetje oud.' B: 'Ach, het weer is goed, dus...'
This is the standard form of the expression used to encourage someone to look at the bright side.
Kies de juiste zin:
In the perfect tense, 'er' usually comes as early as possible, often right after the auxiliary verb or subject.
🎉 Ergebnis: /4
Häufig gestellte Fragen
12 FragenNo, this is a common mistake. You must use 'er' because it refers back to a situation in a prepositional phrase.
Yes, it's very common in Dutch offices as a way to encourage colleagues or end a meeting.
'Wat' is slightly more casual and common in speech. 'Iets' sounds a bit more deliberate.
No, it is too informal and positive for such a somber occasion.
You say: 'We hebben er wat van gemaakt.'
Yes, but it's stronger. It means 'Make the absolute best of it.'
Technically it's the imperative mood, but it's almost always interpreted as a friendly wish.
Only if it's a minor illness (like a cold) and you're telling them to enjoy their time off. Not for serious illness.
It's the opposite! It means to make a mess of things.
Yes, it is widely understood and used in Flanders.
Because it's part of the verb 'maken van'. In Dutch, prepositions often stay with the verb at the end of the phrase.
Yes, if you have a reasonably casual relationship, which is common in the Netherlands.
Verwandte Redewendungen
Het beste ervan maken
similarTo make the best of it.
Er een potje van maken
contrastTo mess things up.
Schouders eronder
builds onTo put one's shoulders under it.
Pluk de dag
similarSeize the day (Carpe Diem).
Zet 'm op
similarGo for it / Put it on.
Er iets van bakken
similarTo manage to do something (literally: to bake something of it).
