Signification
Expressing disappointment.
Contexte culturel
Dutch people value 'nuchterheid' (down-to-earthness). 'Dat is balen' is the perfect expression of this trait. The phrase is also used in Flanders, though Belgians might sometimes prefer 'Dat is spijtig'. Expats often adopt this phrase early because it is easy to pronounce and sounds very 'Dutch'.
Keep it short
You don't need to explain why it's 'balen'. Just saying the phrase is enough.
Watch the register
Never use this in a formal job interview or with a stranger.
Signification
Expressing disappointment.
Keep it short
You don't need to explain why it's 'balen'. Just saying the phrase is enough.
Watch the register
Never use this in a formal job interview or with a stranger.
Use it for empathy
It's a great way to show you are listening to a friend's troubles.
Teste-toi
Which is the correct way to express disappointment informally?
My bike has a flat tire. _____
The phrase is a fixed expression 'Dat is balen'.
Fill in the blank.
I missed my train. _____!
Missing a train is a classic 'balen' moment.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'I lost my wallet.' B: '_____'
Losing a wallet is a negative event requiring empathy.
When should you NOT use 'Dat is balen'?
Which situation is inappropriate?
It is too informal and dismissive for a funeral.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesMy bike has a flat tire. _____
The phrase is a fixed expression 'Dat is balen'.
I missed my train. _____!
Missing a train is a classic 'balen' moment.
A: 'I lost my wallet.' B: '_____'
Losing a wallet is a negative event requiring empathy.
Which situation is inappropriate?
It is too informal and dismissive for a funeral.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
6 questionsYes, 'Ik baal' means 'I am annoyed'.
No, it is very common and acceptable in casual settings.
Only if you have a very friendly, informal relationship.
It is for any situation that causes annoyance or disappointment.
It doesn't have a plural; it is a verb/adjective form.
It is often silent or very soft in casual speech.
Expressions liées
Wat jammer
synonymWhat a pity
Echt balen
builds onReally a bummer
Pech hebben
similarTo have bad luck
