Signification
Asking for someone's time.
Contexte culturel
The phrase is inextricably linked to Frans Bauer. If you say it with a slight melodic lilt, people will laugh and think you're very integrated. Directness is valued, but interrupting without this phrase is seen as 'onbeleefd' (impolite). It's the 'gatekeeper' phrase for office social life. In Flanders, people might use 'Hebt ge' instead of 'Heb je', and the tone might be slightly softer/more indirect than in the North. Dutch is spoken here too, but social openers might be more elaborate or involve more 'small talk' before getting to the 'heb je even' part.
The 'Even' Rule
In Dutch, 'even' is your best friend. Use it whenever you ask for something to make it sound 50% more polite instantly.
Don't be too literal
If someone says 'Nee, nu niet,' don't take it personally. The Dutch are direct about their schedules!
Signification
Asking for someone's time.
The 'Even' Rule
In Dutch, 'even' is your best friend. Use it whenever you ask for something to make it sound 50% more polite instantly.
Don't be too literal
If someone says 'Nee, nu niet,' don't take it personally. The Dutch are direct about their schedules!
Frans Bauer
If you want to make a Dutch person smile, hum the first three notes of the song after saying the phrase.
Teste-toi
Fill in the missing word to make the request polite.
Heb je ___ de tijd voor mij?
'Even' is the essential softening particle for this phrase.
Which sentence is most appropriate for a boss?
You want to ask your manager for a moment.
Using 'u' and the full phrase is respectful and professional.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Heb je even de tijd voor mij? B: _________
This is a natural response to a request for attention.
Match the phrase to the situation.
Match 'Heb je even?' with the correct context.
The short version is best for informal, familiar contexts.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesHeb je ___ de tijd voor mij?
'Even' is the essential softening particle for this phrase.
You want to ask your manager for a moment.
Using 'u' and the full phrase is respectful and professional.
A: Heb je even de tijd voor mij? B: _________
This is a natural response to a request for attention.
Match 'Heb je even?' with the correct context.
The short version is best for informal, familiar contexts.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
4 questionsYes, it's just a shorter, more casual version. It's very common in informal settings.
Yes, but it's better to say 'Heeft u even de tijd?' or 'Zou u tijd hebben?' for a more professional tone.
Then don't use 'even'. Say: 'Ik zou graag een uur met je willen praten.' Be honest about the time needed.
In Dutch, you have time 'for' (voor) someone. 'Aan' would imply you are giving time 'to' them like a physical object.
Expressions liées
Heb je even?
specialized formGot a sec?
Heb je een momentje?
synonymDo you have a little moment?
Mag ik je even storen?
similarMay I disturb you for a moment?
Kom ik gelegen?
contrastDo I come at a good time?
