Signification
Praising someone's success.
Contexte culturel
Dutch people value 'nuchterheid' (being down-to-earth). This phrase is a safe way to praise someone without sounding 'over the top'. It focuses on the work done. In Flanders, the phrase is also common, but you might also hear 'Dat is een schone prestatie' (That is a beautiful achievement). In Surinamese Dutch, compliments are often more enthusiastic. While this phrase is used, it might be accompanied by more expressive body language. The 'Zwemdiploma' (swimming diploma) is a huge deal for Dutch children. This is the #1 phrase parents say when their child gets their A, B, or C diploma.
The Sarcasm Shield
If you want to be sure you don't sound sarcastic, add a smile and a 'Gefeliciteerd!' right after.
The 'Hele' Trap
Never say 'een heel prestatie'. It marks you as a beginner immediately. Always add that -e!
Signification
Praising someone's success.
The Sarcasm Shield
If you want to be sure you don't sound sarcastic, add a smile and a 'Gefeliciteerd!' right after.
The 'Hele' Trap
Never say 'een heel prestatie'. It marks you as a beginner immediately. Always add that -e!
Modesty is Key
If someone says this to you, don't just say 'I know'. Say 'Dank je, het was veel werk' to stay in the Dutch cultural sweet spot.
Teste-toi
Choose the correct form of the adjective.
Je hebt de hele dag gewerkt. Dat is een ____ prestatie.
The noun 'prestatie' is a de-word, and after 'een', the adjective gets an -e.
In which situation is 'Dat is een hele prestatie' MOST appropriate?
Select the best scenario:
A 'prestatie' requires significant effort and a goal.
Fill in the missing word to complete the phrase.
Wauw, heb je dat project alleen gedaan? Dat is een hele _______!
The phrase is 'een hele prestatie'. 'Succes' would be 'een groot succes'.
Complete the dialogue with the most natural response.
A: 'Ik ben eindelijk klaar met mijn scriptie!' B: '_________________'
This is the standard, natural way to congratulate someone on finishing a thesis.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesJe hebt de hele dag gewerkt. Dat is een ____ prestatie.
The noun 'prestatie' is a de-word, and after 'een', the adjective gets an -e.
Select the best scenario:
A 'prestatie' requires significant effort and a goal.
Wauw, heb je dat project alleen gedaan? Dat is een hele _______!
The phrase is 'een hele prestatie'. 'Succes' would be 'een groot succes'.
A: 'Ik ben eindelijk klaar met mijn scriptie!' B: '_________________'
This is the standard, natural way to congratulate someone on finishing a thesis.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsYes, if the meal was difficult to make or for a lot of people. If it was just toast, it sounds like a joke.
No, for a theater performance, use 'voorstelling' or 'optreden'. 'Prestatie' is about the achievement/result.
Because 'prestatie' is a 'de-word' and it follows the indefinite article 'een'. Adjectives get an -e in this position.
It is neutral. You can use it in almost any situation, from a sports field to a boardroom.
Yes, but 'hele' is much more common in idiomatic spoken Dutch.
Dat zijn hele prestaties. (Though the singular is much more common as a compliment).
It sounds a bit arrogant to say 'Ik heb een hele prestatie geleverd' unless you are being interviewed about a major feat.
Simply change 'is' to 'was': 'Dat was een hele prestatie.'
You can just say 'Knappe prestatie!' or 'Wat een prestatie!'
Absolutely. It is one of the most common things to say at a graduation.
Expressions liées
Een knappe prestatie
similarA clever/impressive achievement.
Een topprestatie
specialized formA peak performance.
Een wanprestatie
contrastA failure/poor performance.
Geleverde prestatie
builds onThe achievement delivered.
