Signification
To start a difficult task before others.
Contexte culturel
In Dutch business culture, taking the initiative is highly valued. Using this phrase shows you are proactive. Teachers often use this to encourage students to participate without fear. It is used to break the tension in social groups when everyone is waiting for someone else to act. It is a sign of confidence and leadership, reflecting the Dutch 'doe maar gewoon' (just act normal) but with a proactive twist.
Separable Verb
Remember that 'af' moves to the end of the sentence in the present tense.
Proactivity
Using this phrase shows you are a proactive person, which is a great trait in Dutch culture.
Signification
To start a difficult task before others.
Separable Verb
Remember that 'af' moves to the end of the sentence in the present tense.
Proactivity
Using this phrase shows you are a proactive person, which is a great trait in Dutch culture.
Teste-toi
Fill in the missing part of the idiom.
Wie gaat er vandaag het spits ___?
The idiom is 'het spits afbijten'.
Which sentence uses the idiom correctly?
Choose the correct sentence.
Only 'Ik bijt het spits af' is the correct idiomatic form.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Niemand wil beginnen.' B: 'Geen probleem, ik ___.'
The context requires the phrase for starting first.
Match the situation to the correct usage.
You are in a meeting and want to volunteer to go first.
This is the correct idiom for volunteering to start.
🎉 Score : /4
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesWie gaat er vandaag het spits ___?
The idiom is 'het spits afbijten'.
Choose the correct sentence.
Only 'Ik bijt het spits af' is the correct idiomatic form.
A: 'Niemand wil beginnen.' B: 'Geen probleem, ik ___.'
The context requires the phrase for starting first.
You are in a meeting and want to volunteer to go first.
This is the correct idiom for volunteering to start.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsNo, it is a very positive and common idiom.
No, it is only for tasks or actions.
It is neutral and works in most situations.
You can say 'Ik laat iemand anders het spits afbijten'.
Yes, it is common in emails and reports.
Yes, 'Ik beet het spits af'.
Yes, it is a specific Dutch idiom.
Not exactly, 'break the ice' is for social comfort.
No, it is very common and easy to practice.
Yes, it is perfect for starting a game.
Expressions liées
Het ijs breken
similarTo break the ice
De eerste stap zetten
similarTo take the first step
Het voortouw nemen
similarTo take the lead
De spits afbijten
synonymTo start first
