Signification
Describing a long word or task.
Contexte culturel
The Dutch love compound words. This phrase is a survival mechanism for learners and natives alike to acknowledge the linguistic 'Lego' blocks. In Flanders, the phrase is also used, but they might more often say 'Dat is een hele boterham' (That is a whole slice of bread) for a big task. Using this phrase in a meeting can break the tension when someone uses too much corporate jargon, showing you value clear communication. Teachers often use this when introducing long scientific terms to students to make the learning feel less intimidating.
Use it as a filler
If you are struggling to pronounce a long Dutch word, say 'Dat is een hele mond vol!' to buy yourself time and show you have a sense of humor.
Don't use 'mondje'
Even though Dutch people love diminutives, 'mondje vol' is not used for this idiom. Stick to 'mond vol'.
Signification
Describing a long word or task.
Use it as a filler
If you are struggling to pronounce a long Dutch word, say 'Dat is een hele mond vol!' to buy yourself time and show you have a sense of humor.
Don't use 'mondje'
Even though Dutch people love diminutives, 'mondje vol' is not used for this idiom. Stick to 'mond vol'.
The 'Nuchter' factor
Using this phrase shows you appreciate the Dutch value of being down-to-earth. It mocks complexity in a nice way.
Teste-toi
Fill in the missing words to complete the idiom.
Mijn nieuwe functie heet 'Hoofd-kwaliteitsmanager'. Pff, dat is een ____ ____ ____!
The standard idiom is 'een hele mond vol'.
In which situation is 'Dat is een hele mond vol' most appropriate?
Which situation fits?
The phrase is used for long explanations or complex information.
Choose the most natural reaction to the word 'Hottentottententententoonstelling'.
Wat zeg je?
This is the idiomatic way to react to a long, complex word.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Ik woon in de Burgemeester Baron van Voerst van Lyndenstraat.' B: '________'
A long street name is a perfect trigger for this expression.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesMijn nieuwe functie heet 'Hoofd-kwaliteitsmanager'. Pff, dat is een ____ ____ ____!
The standard idiom is 'een hele mond vol'.
Which situation fits?
The phrase is used for long explanations or complex information.
Wat zeg je?
This is the idiomatic way to react to a long, complex word.
A: 'Ik woon in de Burgemeester Baron van Voerst van Lyndenstraat.' B: '________'
A long street name is a perfect trigger for this expression.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsYes, absolutely! It's very common to use it for book titles, movie names, or even long street names.
It's a bit casual for a very formal email, but in a friendly business context, it's fine.
Usually, yes. You could say 'Dat is een mond vol', but 'hele' adds the necessary idiomatic weight.
You can, but then it's a literal statement or a pun. People will likely laugh!
No. 'Een hele kluif' is for a difficult task. 'Een hele mond vol' is for long words or complex info.
Then 'tongbreker' (tongue twister) is a better choice than 'mond vol'.
No, as long as you say it with a smile. It's considered a friendly observation.
It's redundant. 'Dat is een hele mond vol' already implies it's about words.
No, the idiom is always singular.
Yes, it's a timeless expression used by all age groups.
Expressions liées
Een hele kluif
similarA big task or a difficult job.
Tongbreker
specialized formTongue twister.
Mondje dicht
contrastKeep your mouth shut / keep a secret.
Wat een mondvol
synonymWhat a mouthful!
