Signification
Formal way to ask someone's name.
Contexte culturel
Dutch society values egalitarianism, but 'u' is still used to show professional respect. Flemish speakers are generally more formal than their Dutch counterparts. In business, 'u' is the default until a relationship is established. Younger people use 'je' more freely, but 'u' is still expected for elders.
Consistency is key
If you start with 'uw', keep using 'u' throughout the conversation.
Don't overdo it
Using 'u' with friends will make you sound like you're from the 19th century.
Signification
Formal way to ask someone's name.
Consistency is key
If you start with 'uw', keep using 'u' throughout the conversation.
Don't overdo it
Using 'u' with friends will make you sound like you're from the 19th century.
Listen to the other person
If they use 'je' with you, you can usually switch to 'je' too.
The 'u' threshold
Dutch people will often invite you to use 'je' after a few minutes of conversation.
Teste-toi
Fill in the correct formal pronoun.
Wat is ___ naam?
We need the possessive pronoun 'uw' (your) for the formal register.
Which sentence is appropriate for a job interview?
Choose the best option.
In a job interview, you must use the formal 'uw' to show professional respect.
Match the register to the phrase.
Match formal vs informal.
Correctly identifying the register is key to Dutch social etiquette.
Complete the dialogue.
Receptionist: 'Welkom. ___?'
A receptionist is in a professional role and should use the formal 'uw'.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesWat is ___ naam?
We need the possessive pronoun 'uw' (your) for the formal register.
Choose the best option.
In a job interview, you must use the formal 'uw' to show professional respect.
Associez chaque element a gauche avec son pair a droite :
Correctly identifying the register is key to Dutch social etiquette.
Receptionist: 'Welkom. ___?'
A receptionist is in a professional role and should use the formal 'uw'.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
12 questionsYes, it is very appropriate for teachers.
No, 'uw' is gender-neutral.
Don't worry, people will understand you are a learner.
Not if you use the formal 'uw'.
Yes, it's polite for service staff.
It's just the standard Dutch idiom.
No, a polite smile is enough.
Yes, it's common in formal letters.
They might be busy; try again later.
Wait for them to suggest it.
Yes, in any formal scene.
No, that's way too formal.
Expressions liées
Hoe heet u?
synonymWhat is your name?
Mag ik uw naam weten?
similarMay I know your name?
Wat is je naam?
contrastWhat is your name?
Aangenaam
builds onNice to meet you.
