Signification
Doing things slowly and carefully.
Contexte culturel
The Dutch value 'doe maar gewoon' (just act normal). Rushing or being overly ambitious is often seen as 'poeha'. 'Zachtjes aan' is a linguistic tool to keep people grounded. In Flanders, the phrase is also used but might be replaced by 'rustig aan'. The diminutive '-jes' is very common in Flemish dialects to sound more 'volks' (of the people). In Surinamese Dutch, the pace of life is often described as more 'relaxed'. 'Zachtjes aan' fits perfectly into the 'no spang' (don't worry) attitude. In Dutch offices, 'zachtjes aan doen' is a common piece of advice given to colleagues returning from sick leave, reflecting a strong emphasis on long-term health over short-term productivity.
The '-jes' Magic
Whenever you want to make a Dutch command sound less like an order and more like friendly advice, add '-jes'. It works for 'zachtjes', 'rustigjes', and even 'kalmmetjes'.
Not for Emergencies
If someone is in danger, do not say 'zachtjes aan'. It sounds too relaxed and might make them think there is no hurry.
Signification
Doing things slowly and carefully.
The '-jes' Magic
Whenever you want to make a Dutch command sound less like an order and more like friendly advice, add '-jes'. It works for 'zachtjes', 'rustigjes', and even 'kalmmetjes'.
Not for Emergencies
If someone is in danger, do not say 'zachtjes aan'. It sounds too relaxed and might make them think there is no hurry.
Teste-toi
Fill in the missing words to tell your friend to be careful with a glass of water.
Pas op! Doe ______ ______ met dat water.
The phrase 'zachtjes aan doen' is the standard way to advise caution.
Which situation is most appropriate for 'Zachtjes aan'?
When would you say 'Zachtjes aan'?
'Zachtjes aan' is used for caution and preventing breakage.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Ik ben zo moe van het werk. B: Je moet een beetje ______ ______ ______.
'Zachtjes aan doen' means to take it easy or slow down your pace.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
3 exercicesPas op! Doe ______ ______ met dat water.
The phrase 'zachtjes aan doen' is the standard way to advise caution.
When would you say 'Zachtjes aan'?
'Zachtjes aan' is used for caution and preventing breakage.
A: Ik ben zo moe van het werk. B: Je moet een beetje ______ ______ ______.
'Zachtjes aan doen' means to take it easy or slow down your pace.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
4 questionsNot exactly. 'Langzaam' is the word for 'slowly'. 'Zachtjes aan' means 'slowly AND carefully'.
Yes, if you are advising a colleague not to rush a project. It sounds friendly and supportive.
It's a particle that indicates the continuation of an action. It's like saying 'keep it going softly'.
No, it's actually quite caring. It shows you are concerned for their safety or well-being.
Expressions liées
Rustig aan
synonymTake it easy / Calm down
Kalm aan
synonymTake it easy
Schiet op
contrastHurry up
Behoedzaam
specialized formCautiously
