Signification
Things are going well without issues.
Contexte culturel
The Dutch value 'efficiëntie' (efficiency) and 'nuchterheid' (down-to-earthness). This phrase perfectly captures the satisfaction of a job well done without unnecessary drama. While also used in Flanders, Flemish speakers might more frequently use 'Het loopt als een trein' or 'Het gaat vlot.' However, 'gesmeerd' is perfectly understood. The phrase is often used during 'vrijdagmiddagborrel' (Friday afternoon drinks) to summarize a successful work week. Given the Dutch history of seafaring, many idioms relate to movement. While this one is mechanical, it fits the broader theme of 'smooth sailing' (voor de wind gaan).
Use it for positive vibes
It's a great way to sound confident and positive in a professional setting.
Don't forget the 't'
In 'Het loopt', the 't' is essential. Don't say 'Het loop gesmeerd'.
Signification
Things are going well without issues.
Use it for positive vibes
It's a great way to sound confident and positive in a professional setting.
Don't forget the 't'
In 'Het loopt', the 't' is essential. Don't say 'Het loop gesmeerd'.
The 'is' rule
When using the perfect tense, always use 'is': 'Het IS gesmeerd gelopen'.
Teste-toi
Vul het juiste werkwoord in.
De voorbereidingen voor het concert ______ gesmeerd.
The idiom always uses the verb 'lopen'.
Wat betekent 'Het loopt gesmeerd'?
Kies de juiste betekenis:
This is the figurative meaning of the idiom.
Maak de dialoog af.
A: Hoe gaat het met je nieuwe studie? B: ________
This is the most natural and grammatically correct response.
In welke situatie gebruik je 'Het loopt gesmeerd'?
Kies de beste situatie:
The phrase is used for successful processes.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesDe voorbereidingen voor het concert ______ gesmeerd.
The idiom always uses the verb 'lopen'.
Kies de juiste betekenis:
This is the figurative meaning of the idiom.
A: Hoe gaat het met je nieuwe studie? B: ________
This is the most natural and grammatically correct response.
Kies de beste situatie:
The phrase is used for successful processes.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
5 questionsNot directly. You wouldn't say 'Hij loopt gesmeerd.' You would say 'De samenwerking met hem loopt gesmeerd.'
It's neutral. You can use it with your friends or your boss.
You can say 'Het loopt stroef' (It runs stiffly/with friction).
Both are possible, but 'lopen' is the standard idiomatic choice for this specific phrase.
Yes! 'Smeergeld' is a bribe (literally 'grease money') used to make things 'run smoothly' in a corrupt way. But 'Het loopt gesmeerd' itself is not negative.
Expressions liées
op rolletjes lopen
synonymTo run on rollers.
van een leien dakje gaan
synonymTo go like a slate roof.
gesmeerd gaan
similarTo go smoothly.
vlekkeloos verlopen
similarTo pass flawlessly.
in de soep lopen
contrastTo run into the soup.
