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A2 noun 11 Min. Lesezeit

wetenschap

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Erklärung wetenschap in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'wetenschap' is a word you might see in a simple text about school or hobbies. You don't need to use it in complex ways yet. Think of it as just the Dutch word for 'science'. You might see it on a poster for a museum or in a children's book. At this stage, focus on recognizing the word and knowing it is a 'de' word. You can use it in very simple sentences like 'Ik vind wetenschap leuk' (I like science) or 'Wat is wetenschap?' (What is science?). It's helpful to associate it with words you already know, like 'school,' 'boek,' and 'leren' (to learn). Even at A1, knowing this word helps you understand that Dutch people value learning and discovery. You might hear it when people talk about their favorite subjects in school, although many A1 learners will start with more specific words like 'natuur' (nature) or 'techniek' (technology). Just remember: 'wetenschap' = science. It's a big word for big ideas, but you can use it simply!

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At the A2 level, you are starting to talk more about your interests, your education, and the world around you. 'Wetenschap' becomes more useful here. You can use it to describe what you see on the news or what you studied. You should be able to say things like 'De wetenschap is belangrijk voor de toekomst' (Science is important for the future) or 'Ik lees graag over wetenschap' (I like reading about science). At this level, you should also start to notice the adjective 'wetenschappelijk' (scientific), though you might not use it perfectly yet. You will encounter 'wetenschap' in topics related to the environment, health, and technology. It's a key word for participating in basic discussions about societal issues. You might also learn that 'wetenschap' is a compound-friendly word, appearing in things like 'wetenschapsmuseum' (science museum). At A2, your goal is to use 'wetenschap' to express basic opinions and to understand it when it appears in short, clear news articles or educational videos.

By B1, you are expected to handle more abstract topics. 'Wetenschap' is no longer just a school subject; it's a field of work and a way of thinking. you should be able to discuss the role of science in society, such as 'De wetenschap moet antwoorden vinden op het klimaatprobleem' (Science must find answers to the climate problem). You will use 'wetenschap' in the context of 'onderzoek' (research) and 'ontwikkeling' (development). You should also be comfortable with the plural 'wetenschappen' when referring to different academic disciplines. At this level, you start to use more complex sentence structures, like 'Dankzij de wetenschap leven we nu langer' (Thanks to science, we now live longer). You will also encounter the word in more formal contexts, such as at work or in more detailed news reports. You should understand the difference between 'theoretische wetenschap' and 'toegepaste wetenschap' (applied science). B1 learners should also be able to use the word 'wetenschapper' (scientist) to talk about people in the field.

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At B2, you are moving towards fluency in professional and academic settings. 'Wetenschap' is a central term for discussing complex arguments. You should be able to critique scientific claims or support your own arguments with 'wetenschappelijk bewijs' (scientific evidence). You will understand the nuances of how 'wetenschap' is used in Dutch universities versus other institutions. You can use phrases like 'wetenschappelijk onderbouwd' (scientifically substantiated) and 'de ethiek van de wetenschap' (the ethics of science). At this level, you are expected to read long articles about scientific developments and summarize them. You should also be able to participate in debates where 'de rol van de wetenschap in de politiek' (the role of science in politics) is discussed. Your vocabulary should include related terms like 'empirisch,' 'hypothese,' and 'methodologie.' You should also be aware of the historical context of Dutch science, perhaps recognizing names like Christiaan Huygens or Antoni van Leeuwenhoek in relation to the 'geschiedenis van de wetenschap.'

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At C1, you use 'wetenschap' with the precision of a native speaker or a scholar. You understand the philosophical implications of the word and can discuss 'wetenschapsfilosofie' (philosophy of science). You are comfortable using 'wetenschap' in its more abstract sense of 'knowledge' or 'awareness,' such as in the phrase 'met de wetenschap dat...' (with the knowledge that...). You can navigate highly technical texts and academic journals where 'wetenschap' is the foundation of every sentence. You understand the subtle differences between 'geesteswetenschappen,' 'natuurwetenschappen,' and 'sociale wetenschappen' and can discuss the methodological differences between them. You can write complex essays on the 'popularisering van de wetenschap' or the 'commercialisering van wetenschappelijk onderzoek.' Your use of the word is nuanced, and you can switch between formal academic registers and more accessible ways of explaining scientific concepts to others. You are also aware of how 'wetenschap' features in Dutch law and public policy at a deep level.

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At C2, you have a complete mastery of 'wetenschap' and all its derivatives. You can engage in high-level academic discourse, contribute to scientific publications in Dutch, and understand the most subtle rhetorical uses of the word. You can deconstruct scientific arguments and discuss the 'sociologie van de wetenschap' with ease. You are familiar with archaic and literary uses of the word and can appreciate its role in the history of Dutch thought. Whether you are discussing 'kwantumwetenschap' or 'literatuurwetenschap,' you do so with absolute linguistic precision. You can also use 'wetenschap' in creative ways, perhaps in poetry or high-level journalism, to evoke specific connotations of certainty, inquiry, or human limitation. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item; it is a tool for professional-grade communication and deep intellectual exploration. You can effortlessly explain the most complex scientific theories in Dutch, maintaining both accuracy and stylistic elegance.

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wetenschap in 30 Sekunden

Wetenschap means science or the systematic study of a subject.
It is a 'de' word: de wetenschap.
It covers natural, social, and formal sciences, plus humanities.
The adjective is 'wetenschappelijk' (scientific).

The Dutch word wetenschap is a fundamental term that translates to 'science' in English. However, its scope in Dutch is slightly broader than the common English usage of 'science,' which often defaults to the natural sciences like biology or physics. In Dutch, wetenschap encompasses any systematic study or body of knowledge acquired through research and method. This includes the humanities (geesteswetenschappen) and social sciences (sociale wetenschappen), not just the 'hard' sciences. When you use this word, you are referring to the organized pursuit of knowledge. It is used in academic contexts, news reports about new discoveries, and everyday conversations about progress and education. For example, when someone says 'de medische wetenschap,' they are talking about the whole field of medical research and established facts. The term is derived from the verb 'weten' (to know) combined with the suffix '-schap,' which denotes a state, condition, or collective body. Therefore, etymologically, it is the 'state of knowing' or a 'collective body of knowledge.' This distinction is vital for learners because it helps explain why a history professor is considered a 'wetenschapper' (scientist/scholar) in the Netherlands, whereas in English, they would more likely be called a 'scholar.'

Semantic Range: Covers natural sciences, formal sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
Academic Context: Used to describe university research and methodological rigor.
Daily Life: Appears in discussions about health, technology, and climate change.

De moderne wetenschap heeft ons geholpen om vaccins sneller te ontwikkelen dan ooit tevoren.

Zonder de wetenschap zouden we de werking van het universum niet begrijpen.

Zij wijdt haar hele leven aan de wetenschap en doet onderzoek naar klimaatverandering.

Is psychologie een harde wetenschap of een sociale wetenschap?

De resultaten van deze wetenschap zijn gebaseerd op jarenlang onderzoek.

In professional settings, 'wetenschap' is the hallmark of objectivity. If a claim is 'wetenschappelijk onderbouwd' (scientifically substantiated), it carries significant weight in Dutch society. The Dutch value evidence-based policy, making this word a staple in political debates regarding the environment, public health, and technology. When you talk about 'de wetenschap,' you are often invoking a sense of collective human progress and the rigorous testing of ideas. It is not just a subject in school; it is a worldview and a methodology for understanding reality. Understanding this word is crucial for navigating Dutch news, as 'wetenschapsnieuws' (science news) is a dedicated section in most major newspapers like De Volkskrant or NRC. This word is also central to the identity of Dutch universities, which are often called 'universiteiten voor wetenschappelijk onderwijs' (universities for scientific/academic education). This distinguishes them from 'hogescholen' (universities of applied sciences), which focus more on practical training. Thus, 'wetenschap' is deeply tied to the prestige and methodology of higher education in the Netherlands.

Using wetenschap correctly requires understanding its role as a noun and how it interacts with adjectives and verbs. It is a 'de-word' (gender: feminine/masculine), so you use 'de wetenschap.' When you want to describe something as scientific, you use the adjective 'wetenschappelijk.' In sentences, 'wetenschap' often functions as the subject or the object of a preposition. For instance, 'Hij werkt in de wetenschap' (He works in science/academia). Notice that in Dutch, we often use the definite article 'de' where English might omit it. For example, 'Science is important' becomes 'De wetenschap is belangrijk.' This is a common pattern for abstract nouns in Dutch. You can also combine 'wetenschap' with other words to create compounds, which is a very Dutch way of being precise. Words like 'natuurwetenschap' (natural science), 'taalwetenschap' (linguistics), and 'computerwetenschap' (computer science) are all very common. When discussing the application of science, you might say 'de toepassing van de wetenschap.' If you are talking about the limits of what we know, you might use 'de grenzen van de wetenschap.'

Subject Position: De wetenschap staat nooit stil (Science never stands still).
Object of Preposition: Geloof jij in de wetenschap? (Do you believe in science?)
Compound Usage: De sociale wetenschappen bestuderen de mens (Social sciences study humans).

Er is veel geld nodig voor fundamentele wetenschap.

De wetenschap achter dit product is erg complex.

Zij heeft een passie voor de medische wetenschap.

In de wetenschap moet je altijd kritisch blijven.

De wetenschap biedt oplossingen voor mondiale problemen.

Beyond just being a subject, 'wetenschap' can be used in more abstract ways, such as 'de wetenschap dat...' meaning 'the knowledge that...' or 'being aware that...'. This is slightly more formal but very common in literature and high-level journalism. For example: 'De wetenschap dat hij niet alleen was, stelde hem gerust' (The knowledge that he was not alone reassured him). In this context, it functions similarly to 'besef' or 'kennis'. However, for A2 learners, the primary focus should remain on its meaning as 'science.' When you are writing an essay or a report, using 'wetenschap' correctly shows a high level of academic Dutch. You should also be aware of the verb 'beoefenen' (to practice/engage in). One 'beoefent de wetenschap' (one practices science). This collocation is very natural. Additionally, 'wetenschap' is often paired with 'techniek' (technology), as in 'wetenschap en techniek,' reflecting the close link between theoretical knowledge and practical application in the modern world.

You will encounter wetenschap in a variety of settings, ranging from educational environments to the daily news. In schools, students encounter it during 'natuur en techniek' lessons, but the word itself becomes more prominent in 'middelbare school' (high school) when discussing different 'profielen' (study tracks). If a student chooses the 'Natuur en Gezondheid' profile, they are heavily involved in 'wetenschap.' On television, shows like 'Focus' or 'Atlas' discuss 'wetenschappelijke ontdekkingen' (scientific discoveries) and are very popular. You will also hear it frequently in political contexts, especially when politicians refer to 'het Outbreak Management Team' or other 'wetenschappelijke adviseurs' (scientific advisors) during crises. In a university city like Leiden, Utrecht, or Groningen, 'wetenschap' is the talk of the town. You will see it on posters for 'lezingen' (lectures), in university magazines, and in the names of buildings like the 'Faculteit der Wetenschappen.'

News Media: Headlines like 'Nieuwe stap in de wetenschap' are common.
Education: Universities are the primary hubs for 'wetenschappelijk onderzoek'.
Documentaries: Narrators often use 'wetenschap' to explain complex natural phenomena.

De NOS heeft een speciale redactie voor wetenschap.

Veel podcasts gaan over de laatste ontwikkelingen in de wetenschap.

In de bibliotheek vind je boeken over populaire wetenschap.

De koning reikt prijzen uit voor belangrijke wetenschap.

Kinderen leren op jonge leeftijd al over de basis van de wetenschap.

Furthermore, in the workplace, especially in the Randstad area (Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, Den Haag), you will hear 'wetenschap' mentioned in relation to 'R&D' (Research and Development). Companies like ASML or Philips are deeply rooted in 'toegepaste wetenschap' (applied science). Even in casual conversations, people might say 'Het is geen hogere wetenschap' (It's not rocket science) to imply that something is simple to understand. This shows how integrated the concept of science is in Dutch culture—it serves as a benchmark for complexity and expertise. Another common place to hear the word is in documentaries on platforms like NPO Start, where 'wetenschappers' explain things ranging from the deep sea to the furthest reaches of space. In short, 'wetenschap' is everywhere in the Netherlands, reflecting a society that values education, inquiry, and evidence-based thinking.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using wetenschap is narrowing its definition too much. In English, 'science' often excludes things like 'literary studies' or 'law,' but in Dutch, these are very much 'wetenschappen.' If you only use the word for chemistry and physics, you are missing a huge part of its Dutch usage. Another common error is with the gender and article. Remember, it is 'de wetenschap,' not 'het wetenschap.' Using the wrong article is a classic learner mistake that can make your Dutch sound unnatural. Additionally, learners often forget the 'de' in general statements. While English says 'Science says...', Dutch says 'De wetenschap zegt...'. Skipping the article makes the sentence feel incomplete. Another nuance is the difference between 'wetenschap' and 'kennis.' While both can translate to 'knowledge' in certain contexts, 'wetenschap' implies a structured, academic, or collective body of knowledge, whereas 'kennis' is more general and can be personal. For example, 'Ik heb kennis van auto's' (I have knowledge of cars) is correct, but 'Ik heb wetenschap van auto's' would sound very strange unless you are a mechanical engineer discussing the physics of vehicles.

Article Error: Saying 'het wetenschap' instead of 'de wetenschap'.
Scope Confusion: Thinking it only refers to STEM subjects.
Translation Trap: Using 'wetenschap' when 'kennis' (general knowledge) is more appropriate.

Fout: Ik hou van wetenschap. Goed: Ik hou van de wetenschap.

Fout: Het wetenschap is moeilijk. Goed: De wetenschap is moeilijk.

Fout: Hij heeft veel wetenschap over koken. Goed: Hij heeft veel kennis over koken.

Fout: De wetenschap van talen. Goed: De taalwetenschap.

Fout: Een wetenschap onderzoek. Goed: Een wetenschappelijk onderzoek.

Finally, the plural 'wetenschappen' is often used correctly to refer to university departments, but sometimes learners use it when they should use the singular. If you are talking about science as a whole concept, use the singular 'de wetenschap.' If you are talking about the various branches (like physics, chemistry, and biology together), use 'de wetenschappen.' Misusing the plural can make your sentence sound like you are referring to specific academic departments rather than the concept of scientific inquiry. Also, be careful with the compound word 'wetenschapsman'—it is quite old-fashioned. Nowadays, we use 'wetenschapper' for both men and women. Using 'wetenschapsman' might make you sound like you're from the 19th century! Stick to 'wetenschapper' to be modern and inclusive.

While wetenschap is the primary word for science, there are several related terms that you should know to sound more like a native speaker. The most important alternative is onderzoek (research). Often, when English speakers say 'science,' they are actually referring to the act of 'doing research.' For example, 'Science shows...' can often be translated as 'Onderzoek toont aan...'. Another related word is kennis (knowledge). As mentioned before, 'kennis' is broader and more personal. Then there is geleerdheid (erudition/scholarship), which is a bit more formal and relates to being highly educated. For specific branches, you use compounds: natuurkunde (physics), scheikunde (chemistry), and biologie (biology). Interestingly, Dutch uses the suffix '-kunde' (knowledge/skill) for many science subjects, which is a legacy of the scientist Simon Stevin, who wanted to create Dutch terms for scientific concepts.

Wetenschap vs. Onderzoek: 'Wetenschap' is the field/body of knowledge; 'onderzoek' is the activity of investigating.
Wetenschap vs. Kennis: 'Wetenschap' is systematic and academic; 'kennis' is general information or awareness.
Wetenschap vs. Theorie: 'Wetenschap' is the whole discipline; 'theorie' is a specific explanation within that discipline.

Het onderzoek naar kanker vordert gestaag.

Zijn kennis van de geschiedenis is indrukwekkend.

De theorie van Einstein veranderde de wereld.

Hij is een man van grote geleerdheid.

De discipline van de sociologie is relatief jong.

You might also encounter academici (academics) or geleerden (scholars) when referring to the people within the field. 'Geleerden' is slightly more old-fashioned and respectful, while 'academici' is standard for university-educated professionals. In the context of technology, innovatie (innovation) is often used alongside 'wetenschap' to describe the practical results of scientific work. When discussing the methodology of science, you will hear methodologie or systematiek. Understanding these synonyms and related terms will help you navigate different registers of Dutch, from a casual chat about a documentary to a formal university lecture. Remember that choosing the right word depends on whether you are talking about the field as a whole (wetenschap), the process (onderzoek), or the result (kennis/innovatie).

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The Dutch word for 'science' was almost 'weetkunst' if some 16th-century linguists had their way, but 'wetenschap' won out!

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ˈʋeː.tə(n).sxɑp/

US /ˈveɪ.tən.ʃɑp/

The stress is on the first syllable: WE-ten-schap.

Reimt sich auf

eigenschap gezelschap boodschap vriendschap gereedschap ouderschap leiderschap betonstap

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing 'sch' like 'sh' (it should be 's' + guttural 'ch').
Making the 'ee' too short.
Stressing the last syllable.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

Easy to recognize due to English 'science' context, though spelling is different.

Schreiben 3/5

Spelling 'wetenschappelijk' can be tricky with double letters.

Sprechen 3/5

Guttural 'sch' sound requires practice for English speakers.

Hören 2/5

Clearly pronounced in most contexts.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

weten school leren onderzoek boek

Als Nächstes lernen

onderzoek theorie experiment bewijs feiten

Fortgeschritten

epistemologie methodologie empirisch paradigma hypothese

Wichtige Grammatik

Compound nouns in Dutch are written as one word.

Wetenschap + museum = wetenschapsmuseum.

Adjectives ending in -lijk often describe a quality.

Wetenschappelijk (scientific).

Abstract nouns often take the definite article 'de'.

De wetenschap (Science).

Pluralization of nouns ending in -schap usually adds -pen.

Eigenschap -> eigenschappen, wetenschap -> wetenschappen.

The suffix -schap often creates feminine/masculine nouns.

De wetenschap.

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Beispiele nach Niveau

Ik leer over wetenschap op school.

I learn about science at school.

Simple subject-verb-object structure.

Wat is wetenschap?

What is science?

Basic question with 'wat is'.

Wetenschap is interessant.

Science is interesting.

Adjective usage with 'is'.

De wetenschap helpt mensen.

Science helps people.

Use of the definite article 'de'.

Ik hou van wetenschap.

I love science.

Expressing a preference.

Kijk, een boek over wetenschap.

Look, a book about science.

Prepositional phrase 'over wetenschap'.

Wetenschap is overal.

Science is everywhere.

Adverb 'overal' used with 'is'.

Mijn vader werkt in de wetenschap.

My father works in science.

Prepositional phrase 'in de wetenschap'.

De wetenschap verandert de wereld elke dag.

Science changes the world every day.

Present tense verb 'verandert'.

Zij vindt de wetenschap achter koken leuk.

She likes the science behind cooking.

Phrase 'de wetenschap achter'.

We gaan naar het museum voor wetenschap.

We are going to the science museum.

Compound-like structure 'museum voor wetenschap'.

Is wetenschap jouw favoriete vak?

Is science your favorite subject?

Interrogative sentence.

De wetenschap zegt dat we meer moeten slapen.

Science says that we should sleep more.

Subordinate clause starting with 'dat'.

Er zijn veel soorten wetenschap.

There are many types of science.

Plural 'soorten' followed by singular 'wetenschap'.

Zonder wetenschap hadden we geen internet.

Without science, we wouldn't have internet.

Conditional context with 'zonder'.

Hij leest een tijdschrift over wetenschap.

He is reading a magazine about science.

Object of a preposition.

De medische wetenschap heeft veel ziektes genezen.

Medical science has cured many diseases.

Adjective 'medische' modifying 'wetenschap'.

Wetenschap is gebaseerd op feiten, niet op meningen.

Science is based on facts, not on opinions.

Passive construction 'is gebaseerd op'.

De overheid investeert veel geld in de wetenschap.

The government invests a lot of money in science.

Verb 'investeren in'.

Zij wil later een carrière in de wetenschap.

She wants a career in science later.

Future intent with 'wil later'.

Hoe beïnvloedt de wetenschap ons dagelijks leven?

How does science influence our daily lives?

Question word 'hoe' with an inverted verb.

De wetenschap staat nooit stil; er zijn altijd nieuwe ontdekkingen.

Science never stands still; there are always new discoveries.

Idiomatic expression 'staat nooit stil'.

Veel mensen vertrouwen op de wetenschap voor antwoorden.

Many people rely on science for answers.

Verb 'vertrouwen op'.

Zijn passie voor wetenschap begon al in zijn jeugd.

His passion for science already started in his youth.

Possessive pronoun 'zijn' with 'passie voor'.

Wetenschappelijk onderzoek vereist een kritische houding.

Scientific research requires a critical attitude.

Adjective 'wetenschappelijk' modifying 'onderzoek'.

De kloof tussen de wetenschap en de maatschappij moet kleiner.

The gap between science and society must become smaller.

Noun 'kloof' (gap) used metaphorically.

Er is een brede consensus in de wetenschap over dit onderwerp.

There is a broad consensus in science about this topic.

Use of 'consensus' and 'over dit onderwerp'.

De popularisering van de wetenschap is essentieel voor educatie.

The popularization of science is essential for education.

Abstract noun 'popularisering'.

Zij bekritiseert de manier waarop de wetenschap wordt gefinancierd.

She criticizes the way science is funded.

Relative clause 'waarop... wordt gefinancierd'.

De wetenschap biedt een objectief kader voor discussie.

Science provides an objective framework for discussion.

Adjective 'objectief' and noun 'kader'.

Hij combineert zijn liefde voor kunst met de wetenschap.

He combines his love for art with science.

Verb 'combineren... met'.

De ethische grenzen van de wetenschap worden vaak besproken.

The ethical boundaries of science are often discussed.

Plural 'grenzen' and passive 'worden besproken'.

De wetenschapsfilosofie onderzoekt de fundamenten van onze kennis.

The philosophy of science examines the foundations of our knowledge.

Compound noun 'wetenschapsfilosofie'.

Met de wetenschap dat de tijd dringt, gingen ze aan het werk.

With the knowledge that time was running out, they went to work.

Idiomatic use of 'met de wetenschap dat'.

Zijn argumenten missen elke wetenschappelijke basis.

His arguments lack any scientific basis.

Verb 'missen' and noun 'basis'.

De wetenschap is een dynamisch proces van vallen en opstaan.

Science is a dynamic process of trial and error.

Metaphorical 'vallen en opstaan'.

Zij pleit voor meer transparantie in de wetenschap.

She advocates for more transparency in science.

Verb 'pleiten voor'.

De convergentie van verschillende wetenschappen leidt tot innovatie.

The convergence of different sciences leads to innovation.

Noun 'convergentie' and plural 'wetenschappen'.

Wetenschappelijke integriteit is de hoeksteen van betrouwbaar onderzoek.

Scientific integrity is the cornerstone of reliable research.

Metaphorical 'hoeksteen'.

Zijn bijdrage aan de wetenschap is van onschatbare waarde.

His contribution to science is of inestimable value.

Phrase 'van onschatbare waarde'.

De epistemologische vragen binnen de wetenschap zijn uiterst complex.

The epistemological questions within science are extremely complex.

Advanced adjective 'epistemologische'.

Men dient de wetenschap niet als een onfeilbare religie te beschouwen.

One should not regard science as an infallible religion.

Formal 'men' and 'dient... te beschouwen'.

De institutionalisering van de wetenschap heeft zowel voor- als nadelen.

The institutionalization of science has both advantages and disadvantages.

Long abstract noun 'institutionalisering'.

Zij analyseert de discursieve praktijken binnen de moderne wetenschap.

She analyzes the discursive practices within modern science.

Academic term 'discursieve praktijken'.

De wetenschap is verweven met de politieke constellatie van de tijd.

Science is intertwined with the political constellation of the time.

Metaphorical 'verweven met' and 'constellatie'.

Een holistische benadering van de wetenschap is noodzakelijk.

A holistic approach to science is necessary.

Adjective 'holistische'.

De wetenschap fungeert als een baken van rede in roerige tijden.

Science functions as a beacon of reason in turbulent times.

Metaphorical 'baken van rede'.

Hij reflecteert op de ontologische status van wetenschappelijke entiteiten.

He reflects on the ontological status of scientific entities.

Advanced philosophical vocabulary.

Häufige Kollokationen

wetenschappelijk onderzoek

de medische wetenschap

wetenschappelijke feiten

de sociale wetenschappen

toegepaste wetenschap

fundamentele wetenschap

wetenschappelijk bewijs

de grenzen van de wetenschap

wetenschappelijk tijdschrift

wetenschappelijke methode

Häufige Phrasen

in de naam der wetenschap

— Doing something for the sake of science.

Hij deed dit experiment in de naam der wetenschap.

het is geen hogere wetenschap

— It is not very difficult to understand.

Je kunt dit makkelijk repareren; het is geen hogere wetenschap.

met de wetenschap dat

— Knowing that something is the case.

Hij ging op reis met de wetenschap dat hij gemist zou worden.

de harde wetenschap

— Sciences like physics or chemistry.

Natuurkunde wordt vaak gezien als een harde wetenschap.

populaire wetenschap

— Science explained for a general audience.

Dit boek over populaire wetenschap is een bestseller.

de stand van de wetenschap

— The current state of scientific knowledge.

Volgens de huidige stand van de wetenschap is dit veilig.

wetenschap en techniek

— Science and technology.

Er is meer aandacht nodig voor wetenschap en techniek op school.

een man/vrouw van de wetenschap

— A person dedicated to science.

Zij is echt een vrouw van de wetenschap.

wetenschappelijke raad

— A council that provides scientific advice.

De Wetenschappelijke Raad voor het Regeringsbeleid adviseert de regering.

de vruchten van de wetenschap

— The benefits resulting from scientific work.

We plukken nu de vruchten van de wetenschap.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

wetenschap vs kennis

Kennis is personal or general information; wetenschap is systematic and academic.

wetenschap vs onderzoek

Onderzoek is the process; wetenschap is the field or body of knowledge.

wetenschap vs kunde

Kunde is often a suffix for a specific field (e.g., wiskunde), while wetenschap is the general term.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Het is geen hogere wetenschap"

— It's not rocket science (it's easy).

Kom op, deze puzzel is geen hogere wetenschap!

informal

"In de naam der wetenschap"

— For the sake of knowledge, sometimes used ironically.

Ik ga deze vreemde pizza eten, in de naam der wetenschap!

neutral

"De wetenschap staat nooit stil"

— Progress is continuous.

Nieuwe medicijnen worden elke dag uitgevonden; de wetenschap staat nooit stil.

neutral

"Met de wetenschap van nu"

— Knowing what we know now (hindsight).

Met de wetenschap van nu hadden we anders beslist.

neutral

"De grenzen van de wetenschap verleggen"

— To innovate or discover new things.

Deze astronauten verleggen de grenzen van de wetenschap.

formal

"De wetenschap heeft het laatste woord"

— Scientific evidence is the deciding factor.

In deze discussie over het klimaat heeft de wetenschap het laatste woord.

neutral

"Een kind van de wetenschap"

— Someone whose existence or success is due to science (e.g., IVF).

Hij noemt zichzelf een kind van de wetenschap.

neutral

"De wetenschap in de praktijk brengen"

— To apply scientific knowledge.

De ingenieur bracht de wetenschap in de praktijk.

neutral

"Zich aan de wetenschap wijden"

— To devote oneself to science.

Zij heeft zich volledig aan de wetenschap gewijd.

formal

"De stem van de wetenschap"

— The perspective or advice of scientists.

De overheid moet luisteren naar de stem van de wetenschap.

neutral

Leicht verwechselbar

wetenschap vs weten

They share the same root.

Weten is a verb (to know); wetenschap is a noun (science/knowledge).

Ik weet (weten) veel over wetenschap (noun).

wetenschap vs wet

They look similar.

Wet means 'law'; wetenschap means 'science'.

De wet (law) is anders dan de wetenschap (science).

wetenschap vs wetenschappelijk

It is the adjective form.

Use 'wetenschap' as a noun and 'wetenschappelijk' to describe something.

Dit is een wetenschappelijk (adj) boek over wetenschap (noun).

wetenschap vs wetenschapper

It refers to the person.

Wetenschap is the field; wetenschapper is the person who works in it.

De wetenschapper (person) werkt in de wetenschap (field).

wetenschap vs weetje

Also from 'weten'.

A 'weetje' is a fun little fact; 'wetenschap' is a serious study.

Ik heb een leuk weetje (fact) over de wetenschap (science).

Satzmuster

Ik vind [wetenschap] [adjective].

Ik vind wetenschap leuk.

De wetenschap is [adjective] voor [noun].

De wetenschap is belangrijk voor de wereld.

Dankzij de wetenschap kunnen we [verb].

Dankzij de wetenschap kunnen we ziektes genezen.

Er is een [noun] in de wetenschap over [topic].

Er is een discussie in de wetenschap over dit onderwerp.

Met de wetenschap dat [clause], [main clause].

Met de wetenschap dat het gaat regenen, neem ik een paraplu mee.

De [adjective] status van de wetenschap is [adjective].

De ontologische status van de wetenschap is twijfelachtig.

Zij doet onderzoek naar [wetenschap].

Zij doet onderzoek naar de medische wetenschap.

Is [wetenschap] een [adjective] vak?

Is wetenschap een moeilijk vak?

Wortfamilie

Substantive

wetenschapper (scientist)

wetenschapsfilosofie (philosophy of science)

natuurwetenschap (natural science)

menswetenschap (human science)

Verben

verwetenschappelijken (to make scientific)

Adjektive

wetenschappelijk (scientific)

Verwandt

weten (to know)

wetenswaardigheid (interesting fact)

wetens (knowingly)

wetenswaardig (worth knowing)

wetenschapster (female scientist)

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So verwendest du es

frequency

Very frequent in news, education, and professional settings.

Häufige Fehler

Saying 'het wetenschap'. → De wetenschap.
'Wetenschap' is a feminine/masculine noun, so it always takes 'de'. Nouns ending in -schap are almost always 'de-words'.
Using 'wetenschap' for 'knowledge of a secret'. → Kennis or wetenschap (in a specific legal sense).
Usually, 'kennis' is better for personal information. 'Wetenschap' implies a formal body of knowledge.
Spelling it 'wetenschapelijk'. → Wetenschappelijk.
The adjective needs a double 'p' to keep the 'a' sound short. This is a very common spelling error.
Thinking 'wetenschap' only means 'natural science'. → Wetenschap (including humanities).
In Dutch, 'wetenschap' is the umbrella term for all academic disciplines, including history and sociology.
Translating 'Science says' as 'Wetenschap zegt'. → De wetenschap zegt.
Dutch requires the definite article 'de' in general statements about abstract concepts.

Tipps

Master the 'SCH'

The 'sch' in wetenschap is not like the English 'sh'. It's an 's' followed by a Dutch 'g/ch' sound. Practice by saying 's' and then clearing your throat gently.

Don't forget the 'DE'

In Dutch, abstract nouns like 'wetenschap' almost always need the definite article 'de' when talking about them in general. 'De wetenschap is mooi' (Science is beautiful).

Learn the compounds

Dutch loves making one big word out of two. Instead of 'science of language,' say 'taalwetenschap'. It makes you sound much more advanced!

The double 'P'

The adjective 'wetenschappelijk' has two 'p's because the 'a' is short. If you only write one 'p', the 'a' would sound long, which is wrong.

Broaden your definition

Remember that in the Netherlands, a history professor is just as much a 'wetenschapper' as a physics professor. Don't limit the word to just lab coats!

Use 'Hogere Wetenschap'

Use the phrase 'Het is geen hogere wetenschap' when someone is overcomplicating a simple task. It's a very natural way to use the word.

Listen for the suffix

The suffix '-schap' appears in many words (vriendschap, boodschap). Once you recognize its sound, you'll find it easier to identify 'wetenschap' in fast speech.

Academic Writing

In academic Dutch, 'wetenschap' is the standard word. Use it to refer to your methodology or the body of existing research.

Visit NEMO

If you are in Amsterdam, visit the NEMO Science Museum. You will see the word 'wetenschap' everywhere and see how it's taught to children.

Connect to 'Weten'

Always link 'wetenschap' to 'weten' (to know). It’s the 'state of knowing' or the 'act of knowing'.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Weten' (Knowing) + 'Schap' (Ship). A ship full of knowledge is Science!

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a scientist on a ship ('schap') looking through a telescope to 'weten' (know) more about the stars.

Word Web

weten kennis onderzoek universiteit feiten bewijs experiment theorie

Herausforderung

Try to name three different 'wetenschappen' (e.g., biologie, natuurkunde, geschiedenis) in Dutch.

Wortherkunft

From Middle Dutch 'wetenschap', formed from 'weten' (to know) and the suffix '-schap' (state/condition).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Knowledge, wisdom, or the state of knowing.

Germanic (related to German 'Wissenschaft').

Kultureller Kontext

Generally a neutral, positive word. In some debates, 'de wetenschap' can be a polarized term regarding climate or health.

In English, 'science' usually means STEM. In Dutch, 'wetenschap' includes Humanities and Law.

Museum Boerhaave (National Museum of Science) Spinozaprijs (The 'Dutch Nobel Prize' for science) Robbert Dijkgraaf (Famous Dutch scientist and politician)

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

University

Ik studeer aan de faculteit der wetenschappen.
Wetenschappelijk onderzoek is hier erg belangrijk.
Zij is een gerespecteerd wetenschapper.
Heb je dat wetenschappelijke artikel gelezen?

News

Nieuwe doorbraak in de wetenschap!
De wetenschap waarschuwt voor klimaatverandering.
Volgens de wetenschap is dit gezond.
Wetenschappers hebben een oplossing gevonden.

Daily Conversation

Dat is geen hogere wetenschap.
Ik hou van boeken over populaire wetenschap.
Geloof jij in de wetenschap?
De wetenschap staat nooit stil.

Job Interview

Ik heb ervaring met wetenschappelijk onderzoek.
Mijn achtergrond ligt in de sociale wetenschappen.
Ik kan wetenschappelijke data analyseren.
Ik werk graag op het snijvlak van wetenschap en praktijk.

Museum

Dit is een interactief wetenschapsmuseum.
Kinderen leren hier over de basis van de wetenschap.
De geschiedenis van de wetenschap is fascinerend.
Kijk naar deze wetenschappelijke instrumenten.

Gesprächseinstiege

"Wat vind jij de meest interessante tak van de wetenschap?"

"Denk je dat de wetenschap alle problemen van de wereld kan oplossen?"

"Welke wetenschappelijke ontdekking heeft jouw leven veranderd?"

"Zou je zelf een wetenschapper willen zijn? Waarom wel of niet?"

"Is er een verschil tussen 'weten' en 'wetenschap' voor jou?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Schrijf over een keer dat de wetenschap je heeft verrast.

Waarom is wetenschap belangrijk voor de maatschappij?

Als je één wetenschappelijk experiment mocht doen, wat zou dat dan zijn?

Hoe gebruik jij wetenschap in je dagelijks leven?

Beschrijf je favoriete wetenschapper en wat hij of zij heeft gedaan.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Mostly, but in formal contexts, it can mean 'knowledge' or 'awareness,' especially in the phrase 'met de wetenschap dat.' In university contexts, it includes the humanities, which English often calls 'scholarship' or 'arts.'

The plural is 'wetenschappen.' It is used when referring to different branches of science together, like 'natuurwetenschappen' (natural sciences) or 'sociale wetenschappen' (social sciences).

It is a 'de' word. You say 'de wetenschap' and 'een wetenschap.' This is consistent for most nouns ending in '-schap.'

The word is 'wetenschapper.' It is used for both men and women. An older, more formal term is 'geleerde.'

It literally means 'higher science.' It is mostly used in the idiom 'Het is geen hogere wetenschap,' which means 'It's not rocket science' or 'It's not that difficult.'

Yes! In Dutch, history is considered a 'geesteswetenschap' (humanity/human science). Any systematic academic study is 'wetenschap.'

'Kennis' is general knowledge you have in your head. 'Wetenschap' is the formal, organized system of knowledge and research used by experts.

No, it is a guttural sound made in the back of the throat, similar to the 'ch' in 'Bach' or 'Loch'. It follows the 's' directly.

You can say: 'Ik ben geïnteresseerd in de wetenschap' or 'Ik studeer [subject], dat is een interessante wetenschap.'

In older translations, 'wetenschap' was often used to mean 'knowledge' or 'wisdom,' but in modern Dutch, that usage is rare outside of literature.

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