Signification
To become confused or lose control.
Contexte culturel
The Dutch appreciate honesty. Admitting you are 'de kluts kwijt' is seen as a sign of self-awareness. The phrase is also used in Flanders, though sometimes 'de pedalen kwijt zijn' (to lose the pedals) is used for similar situations. In modern Dutch offices, using this phrase is a way to break the tension during long meetings. Teachers often use this to encourage students to ask for help when they are confused.
Use it with 'even'
Adding 'even' makes it sound more natural: 'Ik ben even de kluts kwijt'.
Don't use for objects
Never say 'Ik ben mijn sleutels de kluts kwijt'.
Signification
To become confused or lose control.
Use it with 'even'
Adding 'even' makes it sound more natural: 'Ik ben even de kluts kwijt'.
Don't use for objects
Never say 'Ik ben mijn sleutels de kluts kwijt'.
Teste-toi
Fill in the correct verb.
Ik ___ de kluts kwijt.
The phrase uses the verb 'zijn' (to be).
Which sentence is correct?
Choose the correct usage.
This is the standard idiomatic form.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Can you explain this again?' B: 'Sorry, ___.'
This is the natural way to admit confusion.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
3 exercicesIk ___ de kluts kwijt.
The phrase uses the verb 'zijn' (to be).
Choose the correct usage.
This is the standard idiomatic form.
A: 'Can you explain this again?' B: 'Sorry, ___.'
This is the natural way to admit confusion.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
2 questionsOnly if it is a very informal email to a close colleague.
No, it is a common, friendly way to admit you are struggling.
Expressions liées
De draad kwijt zijn
synonymTo lose the thread of a story.
De pedalen kwijt zijn
similarTo lose control (like on a bike).
In de war zijn
synonymTo be confused.
Het spoor bijster zijn
similarTo be lost/confused.
