Cette page dans ta langue

English

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

B2 noun 10 min de lecture

kloof

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces kloof en 30 secondes

Explication kloof in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word 'kloof' very often. You should focus on simpler words like 'gat' (hole) or 'niet hetzelfde' (not the same). However, you might see it in a picture book about nature. Think of it as a 'very big hole in a mountain'. At this stage, just recognize that it is a 'de-word' and it means something like a 'gap'. You don't need to worry about the metaphorical meanings yet. Just imagine a big canyon. If you are learning about the world, you might hear 'de kloof' when someone talks about a famous place like the Grand Canyon. Keep it simple: it's a big opening between two high places.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

At the A2 level, you can start to understand that 'kloof' is used for more than just mountains. You might hear it in simple news stories about people who are very different. For example, 'de kloof tussen rijk en arm'. Even if you don't use it yourself, recognizing it in this context is helpful. You should also learn the plural form 'kloven', and notice how the 'f' changes to a 'v'. This is a common pattern in Dutch (like 'brief' to 'brieven'). You can use it to describe a big distance between two ideas. 'Er is een kloof tussen wat ik wil en wat ik kan.' It's a useful word for expressing that something is not just a little bit different, but very different.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'kloof' in your own speaking and writing, especially when discussing social topics. You will encounter it frequently in newspapers and TV programs. You should understand phrases like 'de kloof dichten' (to bridge the gap) and 'de digitale kloof' (the digital divide). At this level, you are expected to talk about society, and 'kloof' is a perfect word for that. You can use it to describe the generation gap ('de generatiekloof') or the difference between theory and practice. You should also be comfortable using it with the preposition 'tussen'. It's a step up from 'verschil' and shows that you can use more descriptive and impactful language.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

At the B2 level, 'kloof' should be a regular part of your vocabulary. You understand the nuances between 'kloof', 'ravijn', and 'leemte'. You can participate in debates about the 'kloof tussen burger en politiek' and explain why this gap exists. You are familiar with compound words like 'loonkloof' and 'kenniskloof'. Your grammar should be correct, including the plural 'kloven' and the use of 'gapen' as a verb to describe a wide gap. You can use the word to add emphasis to your arguments, showing that a separation is significant and potentially problematic. This word is a key tool for achieving the level of professional and academic Dutch required at B2.

At the C1 level, you use 'kloof' with precision and stylistic flair. You can use it in complex metaphorical contexts, such as describing an 'onoverbrugbare kloof' (an unbridgeable chasm) in a philosophical or highly technical argument. You are aware of the cultural and political weight the word carries in Dutch society and can use it to critique social structures. You might use it in formal reports or academic essays to describe disparities in data or theoretical frameworks. Your understanding of the word includes its historical and etymological roots, and you can distinguish it from even the most subtle synonyms like 'discordantie' or 'discrepantie' depending on the register.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

At the C2 level, 'kloof' is a word you can manipulate for rhetorical effect. You might use it in literature, high-level journalism, or public speaking to evoke specific emotions or imagery. You understand all its idiomatic uses and can even create new, understandable compounds if the context allows. You can discuss the 'kloof' in the context of Dutch history, such as the 'verzuiling' (pillarization) and how those gaps have changed over time. Your mastery is such that you can use the word ironically or to highlight subtle shifts in public discourse. For you, 'kloof' is not just a vocabulary item, but a conceptual tool for analyzing and describing the complexities of the world.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

kloof en 30 secondes

Literally means a chasm, ravine, or deep gap in the earth.
Metaphorically refers to a significant social, political, or economic divide.
Commonly used with the preposition 'tussen' to separate two groups.
Forms many compound words like 'generatiekloof' and 'digitale kloof'.

The Dutch word kloof is a powerful and versatile noun that English speakers primarily translate as 'chasm', 'gap', or 'ravine'. At its most literal level, it describes a deep, narrow opening in the earth's surface, often between mountains or rocks. However, its metaphorical use is arguably more frequent in contemporary Dutch society. It signifies a significant disparity or lack of understanding between two groups, ideas, or entities. Whether you are trekking through the Ardennes or discussing the latest socio-economic reports on the news, the word 'kloof' provides a succinct way to describe a profound separation.

Geological Context: In a physical sense, a kloof is a natural feature. You might see it in a national park. It implies depth and steepness. For example, 'De wandelaars keken diep in de kloof' (The hikers looked deep into the chasm). It suggests something that is difficult to cross without a bridge or specialized equipment.

De politieke partijen proberen de kloof tussen arm en rijk te dichten.

Social and Political Context: This is where the word truly shines in Dutch media. You will often hear about the 'kloof tussen burger en politiek' (the gap between citizens and politics). This usage implies a disconnect in communication, values, or wealth. It is a central theme in Dutch sociological debates, highlighting inequality and the polarization of society.

Furthermore, the word 'kloof' carries a certain weight. It is not just a small 'gat' (hole) or a 'scheur' (crack). A kloof is substantial. It suggests that bridging the distance will require significant effort, policy changes, or emotional labor. In business, one might speak of the 'kloof tussen theorie en praktijk', meaning that what is planned on paper is far removed from what actually happens on the work floor. This nuances the word as a descriptor of inefficiency or unrealistic expectations. In psychological terms, a 'kloof' can exist between two partners who no longer understand each other, indicating a deep emotional rift that might be irreparable. The versatility of 'kloof' makes it an essential B2-level word, allowing learners to move from simple descriptions to complex societal critiques. Whether you are standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon or debating the digital divide ('de digitale kloof'), this word captures the essence of separation perfectly.

Er gaapt een enorme kloof tussen de verwachtingen van de klant en de uiteindelijke levering.

Emotional Resonance: The word evokes a sense of distance that is both spatial and emotional. To 'dichten' (close) a kloof is seen as a noble or necessary goal in Dutch culture, reflecting the 'poldermodel' mentality of seeking consensus and narrowing differences to maintain social stability.

Using kloof correctly involves understanding its grammatical properties and its idiomatic partners. As a 'de-word', its gender is common (masculine/feminine), and its plural form is 'kloven'. The transition from singular to plural involves the common Dutch spelling rule where the double vowel 'oo' becomes single 'o' and the 'f' changes to 'v' when followed by 'en'. This phonetic shift is crucial for learners to master.

De kloven in het landschap waren miljoenen jaren geleden gevormd door erosie.

When constructing sentences, 'kloof' is frequently the subject of verbs like 'ontstaan' (to arise), 'bestaan' (to exist), or 'gapen' (to gape/yawn). The verb 'gapen' is particularly evocative; when we say 'er gaapt een kloof', we are emphasizing how wide and deep the gap is, almost as if it is a mouth opening wide. This is a very common collocation in news reports about inequality.

Verb Pairings: 1. Dichten: To close or bridge the gap. 'We moeten de kloof dichten.'
2. Overbruggen: To bridge (more formal). 'Het is lastig om deze kloof te overbruggen.'
3. Vergroten: To widen or increase. 'De nieuwe belastingwet vergroot de kloof alleen maar.'

In terms of sentence structure, 'kloof' often takes a prepositional phrase starting with 'tussen' to define what is being separated. For example: 'De kloof tussen de generaties wordt steeds groter.' (The gap between the generations is becoming ever larger). You can also use 'in' to describe where the gap is located: 'Er zit een kloof in mijn kennis over dit onderwerp.' (There is a gap in my knowledge about this subject).

Zij probeerden met een nieuw project de digitale kloof in de wijk te verkleinen.

It is also useful to note that 'kloof' can be used in compound words, which is a hallmark of Dutch grammar. Words like 'generatiekloof' (generation gap), 'loonkloof' (wage gap), and 'kenniskloof' (knowledge gap) are extremely common. Using these compounds makes your Dutch sound more natural and advanced. Instead of saying 'de kloof tussen generaties', saying 'de generatiekloof' is more concise and typical of B2/C1 level proficiency. When you use 'kloof' in a sentence, think about the magnitude of the difference you are describing. If it's just a minor disagreement, 'verschil' (difference) might be better. But if it's a fundamental separation that feels like a canyon, 'kloof' is your word.

In the Netherlands and Flanders, you are most likely to encounter kloof in three distinct environments: political news, geography documentaries, and sociological discussions. It is a 'buzzword' in the sense that it appears in almost every debate about social justice or the future of the country. If you open a Dutch newspaper like De Volkskrant or NRC, you will inevitably find an article discussing 'de kloof tussen stad en platteland' (the gap between city and countryside).

Op het nieuws spraken ze over de groeiende kloof op de woningmarkt.

News and Media: Journalists use 'kloof' to dramatize and clarify social divisions. It provides a visual metaphor for complex data. When a news anchor says 'De kloof wordt groter', they are signaling a warning about social cohesion. It is often used in headlines because it is short and impactful.

In educational settings, particularly in geography or earth science classes, 'kloof' is used literally. While the Netherlands is notoriously flat and lacks natural 'kloven', Dutch students learn about them when studying global geography. You might hear it in a nature documentary narrated in Dutch, describing the formation of the Grand Canyon or the deep ravines in the Alps. This literal use is less frequent in daily life but essential for academic vocabulary.

Furthermore, in the professional world, specifically in Human Resources or Management, 'kloof' appears in discussions about corporate culture. Managers might talk about the 'kloof' between the executive board and the employees on the floor. In these contexts, it implies a lack of transparency or a failure of leadership to connect with the workforce. You might also hear it in academic lectures regarding 'de kenniskloof', referring to the unequal distribution of information and education in society.

Tijdens de lezing werd de kloof tussen theorie en de werkelijkheid besproken.

Everyday Conversations: In casual talk, you might hear a friend say, 'Er is zo'n kloof tussen wat hij zegt en wat hij doet' (There's such a gap between what he says and what he does). Here, it's used to point out hypocrisy or inconsistency. It adds a layer of intensity to the criticism that a simpler word like 'verschil' wouldn't provide.

One of the most common mistakes English speakers make when using kloof is confusing it with other words for 'gap' or 'hole'. While English uses 'gap' for almost everything—from a gap in the teeth to a gap in a fence—Dutch is much more specific. Using 'kloof' to describe a small physical hole is a major error. For a small hole, you should use 'gat'. For a crack in a wall, use 'scheur'. 'Kloof' is reserved for something large, deep, and significant.

Fout: Er zit een kloof in mijn sok. (Wrong: There is a chasm in my sock.)
Goed: Er zit een gat in mijn sok.

Another mistake is the pluralization. Learners often forget the spelling change and write 'kloofen' or 'kloofjes'. Remember the 'f' to 'v' transition: one 'kloof', two 'kloven'. Also, the diminutive 'kloofje' exists but is rarely used because the very concept of a 'kloof' is that it is large. A 'small chasm' is somewhat of an oxymoron in Dutch, though it can be used to describe small cracks in skin (like 'hielkloven' or cracked heels), which is a very specific medical/hygiene context.

Preposition Errors: English speakers often want to say 'gap of' (kloof van). While you can say 'een kloof van drie meter' (a gap of three meters), when describing the entities being separated, you must use 'tussen'. 'De kloof tussen de partijen' is correct; 'De kloof van de partijen' sounds like the parties own the chasm.

Finally, be careful with the register. 'Kloof' is a relatively formal or serious word. If you are just talking about a minor difference of opinion, using 'kloof' might sound overly dramatic. For instance, if you and a friend disagree on which pizza to order, don't say 'er is een kloof tussen ons'. Use 'meningsverschil' (difference of opinion) instead. Reserve 'kloof' for deep-seated, systemic, or structural divides. Misusing the intensity of the word can make you sound like you are exaggerating or being overly poetic in casual settings.

Fout: Er is een kloof in de kaas.
Goed: Er zit een gat in de kaas.

Spelling Tip: Think of 'kloof' like 'leaf' in English. Just as leaf becomes leaves, kloof becomes kloven. The sound softens as the word expands.

To truly master kloof, it's helpful to compare it with its synonyms and near-synonyms. Dutch has several words for 'gap' or 'difference', each with its own nuance. Understanding these will help you choose the most precise term for your context.

Kloof vs. Ravijn: A 'ravijn' is almost always literal and geological. It is a ravine or a canyon. While 'kloof' can also be literal, 'ravijn' is more specific to mountain landscapes. You wouldn't talk about a 'ravijn tussen arm en rijk'—that would sound very strange. Use 'ravijn' for hiking and 'kloof' for social issues.

Kloof vs. Gat: 'Gat' is the general word for 'hole'. It is used for holes in clothes, holes in the ground, or even 'een gat in de markt' (a gap in the market). 'Kloof' is much more specific about the shape and depth. A 'kloof' is a long, deep split, whereas a 'gat' can be any shape.

Het verschil is klein, maar de kloof is onoverbrugbaar.

Another important alternative is 'afstand' (distance). While 'kloof' implies a physical or metaphorical barrier that is hard to cross, 'afstand' simply measures how far apart things are. 'Er is een grote afstand tussen ons' is a bit more neutral than 'Er is een kloof tussen ons'. The latter implies a much more dramatic and perhaps permanent separation.

In the context of knowledge or skills, you might use 'leemte'. 'Een leemte in de kennis' is a gap or a void where something is missing. It's often used in academic writing. Compared to 'kloof', 'leemte' sounds more formal and less visual. 'Kloof' suggests two sides separated by a void, while 'leemte' just suggests something is missing. Finally, 'scheur' (crack/tear) is used when something that was once whole has been broken. If a society is 'verscheurd' (torn apart), it results in a 'kloof'. Understanding these distinctions will elevate your Dutch from functional to sophisticated.

Summary of Alternatives: - Verschil: General difference.
- Afstand: Distance (neutral).
- Gat: Physical hole.
- Leemte: Lacuna or void (formal).
- Ravijn: Deep mountain gorge.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The word 'kloof' is one of the few Dutch words that has been borrowed into English, specifically in South African English, to describe a steep-sided valley or ravine.

Guide de prononciation

UK /kloːf/

US /kloʊf/

The stress is on the only syllable: KLOOF.

Rime avec

pook rook loof doof sloof hoof roof geloof

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 'oo' like the 'oo' in 'food' (it should be like 'boat').
Forgetting to change 'f' to 'v' in the plural 'kloven'.
Shortening the 'oo' sound so it sounds like 'klof'.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

Common in newspapers, so B1/B2 readers will see it often.

Écriture 4/5

Requires knowledge of spelling rules for the plural and proper preposition use.

Expression orale 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward once the long 'oo' is mastered.

Écoute 3/5

Easy to hear in political debates and news broadcasts.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

gat tussen verschil berg rijk

Apprends ensuite

overbruggen dichten polarisatie ongelijkheid maatschappij

Avancé

discrepantie discordantie geleding segmentatie

Grammaire à connaître

Spelling change f to v

Kloof (singular) becomes Kloven (plural).

Vowel shortening in plural

The double 'oo' in 'kloof' becomes a single 'o' in 'kloven' because the syllable becomes open.

Preposition 'tussen'

Always use 'tussen' when describing the two sides of a 'kloof'.

Compound nouns

Dutch combines words easily: generatie + kloof = generatiekloof.

Article selection

'Kloof' is a 'de-word', so it takes 'de' and 'die/deze'.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

Exemples par niveau

Kijk naar de diepe kloof in de berg.

Look at the deep chasm in the mountain.

Simple subject-object structure.

De kloof is erg groot.

The gap is very big.

Uses the article 'de'.

Er is een kloof tussen de stenen.

There is a gap between the stones.

Uses 'tussen' (between).

Ik zie een kloof.

I see a chasm.

Basic transitive verb use.

De kloof is donker.

The chasm is dark.

Simple adjective use.

Is dat een kloof?

Is that a chasm?

Question form.

De kloof heeft water.

The chasm has water.

Simple possession.

Ga niet bij de kloof staan.

Don't stand near the chasm.

Imperative form.

Er is een kloof tussen mijn huis en de weg.

There is a gap between my house and the road.

Prepositional phrase 'tussen ... en'.

De kloof tussen arm en rijk is een probleem.

The gap between poor and rich is a problem.

Abstract usage introduction.

We zagen veel kloven in de Ardennen.

We saw many ravines in the Ardennes.

Plural form 'kloven'.

Deze kloof is gevaarlijk voor wandelaars.

This chasm is dangerous for hikers.

Demonstrative pronoun 'deze'.

Hij springt over de kleine kloof.

He jumps over the small gap.

Action verb with 'over'.

De kloof in de muur wordt groter.

The gap in the wall is getting bigger.

Present tense with 'worden'.

Er zit een kloof in mijn kennis van het Nederlands.

There is a gap in my knowledge of Dutch.

Metaphorical use for knowledge.

De vogel vliegt door de kloof.

The bird flies through the chasm.

Preposition 'door' (through).

De overheid wil de kloof tussen burgers en politiek dichten.

The government wants to bridge the gap between citizens and politics.

Infinitive construction with 'om... te'.

Er gaapt een enorme kloof tussen de twee partijen.

A huge gap yawns between the two parties.

Use of the verb 'gapen'.

De generatiekloof zorgt soms voor ruzie.

The generation gap sometimes causes arguments.

Compound word 'generatiekloof'.

Hoe kunnen we de kloof op de arbeidsmarkt verkleinen?

How can we reduce the gap in the labor market?

Question with modal verb 'kunnen'.

De digitale kloof is groter geworden door de crisis.

The digital divide has grown larger due to the crisis.

Present perfect with 'worden'.

Zij voelt een kloof tussen haar en haar collega's.

She feels a gap between her and her colleagues.

Reflexive/Personal feeling context.

Het rapport beschrijft de kloof in de gezondheidszorg.

The report describes the gap in healthcare.

Formal subject 'het rapport'.

Er is een kloof tussen theorie en praktijk in dit vak.

There is a gap between theory and practice in this subject.

Fixed expression 'theorie en praktijk'.

De toenemende kloof tussen arm en rijk bedreigt de sociale stabiliteit.

The increasing gap between poor and rich threatens social stability.

Present participle 'toenemende' as an adjective.

Het is essentieel om de loonkloof tussen mannen en vrouwen aan te pakken.

It is essential to address the wage gap between men and women.

Impersonal construction 'het is... om te'.

De kloof in de samenleving lijkt onoverbrugbaar geworden.

The gap in society seems to have become unbridgeable.

Adjective 'onoverbrugbaar'.

Onderwijs is de sleutel tot het dichten van de kenniskloof.

Education is the key to closing the knowledge gap.

Gerund-like use of 'het dichten'.

De kloof tussen de verwachtingen en de realiteit was pijnlijk.

The gap between expectations and reality was painful.

Past tense 'was'.

Politici moeten oppassen dat de kloof met de kiezer niet te groot wordt.

Politicians must be careful that the gap with the voter doesn't become too large.

Subordinate clause with 'dat'.

Er bestaat een diepe kloof in de opvattingen over klimaatverandering.

There is a deep gap in views on climate change.

Verb 'bestaan' (to exist).

De kloof tussen stad en platteland kwam duidelijk naar voren in de verkiezingsuitslag.

The gap between city and countryside became clear in the election results.

Phrasal verb 'naar voren komen'.

De structurele kloof in de pensioenopbouw vereist een radicale hervorming.

The structural gap in pension accumulation requires a radical reform.

Advanced vocabulary 'pensioenopbouw', 'hervorming'.

Haar betoog legde de kloof bloot tussen retoriek en beleid.

Her argument exposed the gap between rhetoric and policy.

Idiom 'blootleggen' (to expose).

De technologische vooruitgang heeft de kloof tussen generaties verder uitgediept.

Technological progress has further deepened the gap between generations.

Verb 'uitdiepen' (to deepen).

Er heerst een kloof in de perceptie van wat rechtvaardigheid inhoudt.

There is a gap in the perception of what justice entails.

Verb 'heersen' (to prevail/exist).

De kloof tussen de academische wereld en de beroepspraktijk is vaak onderwerp van discussie.

The gap between the academic world and professional practice is often a subject of discussion.

Complex noun phrases.

Men vreest dat de kloof in de maatschappij zal leiden tot radicalisering.

It is feared that the gap in society will lead to radicalization.

Passive-like 'men vreest' construction.

De kloof in de handelsbalans bleef ondanks de maatregelen groeien.

The gap in the trade balance continued to grow despite the measures.

Preposition 'ondanks' (despite).

De auteur onderzoekt de existentiële kloof tussen het individu en de massa.

The author examines the existential gap between the individual and the masses.

Abstract philosophical context.

De kloof in de historiografie over dit tijdperk is nagenoeg onoverbrugbaar.

The gap in the historiography of this era is almost unbridgeable.

High-level academic term 'historiografie'.

Zijn poëzie probeert de kloof te overspannen tussen het transcendente en het alledaagse.

His poetry attempts to span the gap between the transcendent and the everyday.

Literary verb 'overspannen'.

De kloof tussen de fenomenologische ervaring en de neurologische data blijft een mysterie.

The gap between phenomenological experience and neurological data remains a mystery.

Scientific/Philosophical terminology.

Het beleid faalde omdat het de kloof in de uitvoering volledig miskende.

The policy failed because it completely misjudged the gap in implementation.

Verb 'miskennen' (to misjudge/ignore).

De kloof in de diplomatieke betrekkingen leidde tot een totale impasse.

The gap in diplomatic relations led to a total impasse.

Formal political context.

Er gaapt een kloof van onbegrip die elke dialoog in de kiem smoort.

A gap of misunderstanding yawns that nips every dialogue in the bud.

Idiomatic expression 'in de kiem smoren'.

De kloof tussen de ontologische status van het object en zijn representatie is cruciaal.

The gap between the ontological status of the object and its representation is crucial.

Advanced philosophical vocabulary.

De maatschappelijke kloof is verworden tot een structureel kenmerk van de laat-kapitalistische staat.

The social gap has deteriorated into a structural feature of the late-capitalist state.

Verb 'verworden tot' (to deteriorate into).

Collocations courantes

de kloof dichten

een gapende kloof

de kloof overbruggen

een diepe kloof

de sociale kloof

de digitale kloof

de loonkloof

de generatiekloof

de kloof vergroten

de kenniskloof

Phrases Courantes

De kloof tussen arm en rijk

— The standard way to describe income inequality in society.

Veel mensen maken zich zorgen over de kloof tussen arm en rijk.

De kloof tussen burger en politiek

— The disconnect between the general public and government officials.

De kloof tussen burger en politiek moet kleiner worden.

De kloof tussen theorie en praktijk

— When something works on paper but not in the real world.

Er is vaak een kloof tussen theorie en praktijk.

De kloof dichten

— To take actions that bring two opposing sides closer together.

We moeten samenwerken om de kloof te dichten.

Een onoverbrugbare kloof

— A difference so large that it can never be resolved.

Er bleek een onoverbrugbare kloof tussen de partners.

De digitale kloof

— The gap between those with and without access to technology.

De digitale kloof is een modern sociaal probleem.

De loonkloof

— The difference in pay between different groups (often gender-based).

De loonkloof tussen mannen en vrouwen krimpt langzaam.

De generatiekloof

— Differences in outlook or values between different age groups.

Muziek is vaak een bron van de generatiekloof.

Er gaapt een kloof

— There is a very large and obvious gap.

Tussen hun meningen gaapt een diepe kloof.

De kloof verkleinen

— To make a gap smaller, but not necessarily close it completely.

Nieuwe wetten kunnen de kloof verkleinen.

Souvent confondu avec

kloof vs gat

Use 'gat' for a small hole; 'kloof' is for a large, deep divide.

kloof vs ravijn

'Ravijn' is strictly geological; 'kloof' can be metaphorical.

kloof vs gracht

A 'gracht' is a man-made canal; a 'kloof' is natural or abstract.

Expressions idiomatiques

"De kloof dichten"

— To resolve a major difference or dispute between groups.

De partijen hopen met dit akkoord de kloof te dichten.

neutral

"Er gaapt een kloof"

— Used to describe a very wide and seemingly impossible-to-fill gap.

Er gaapt een kloof tussen de beloftes en de werkelijkheid.

literary/journalistic

"Tussen droom en daad staan wetten in de weg en praktische bezwaren"

— A famous line by Elsschot, often used when discussing the 'kloof' between ideals and reality.

Hij wilde de wereld redden, maar ja, tussen droom en daad...

literary

"Over de kloof springen"

— To take a risk to overcome a major obstacle or difference.

Hij besloot over de kloof te springen en zijn excuses aan te bieden.

metaphorical

"Een kloof slaan"

— To cause a division or separation between people.

Zijn opmerking sloeg een kloof in de familie.

neutral

"De kloof overbruggen"

— To find a way to connect two very different things or people.

Kunst kan de kloof tussen culturen overbruggen.

formal

"In een kloof vallen"

— To get lost or fail because of a lack of support or connection.

Veel leerlingen vallen in de kloof tussen basisschool en middelbare school.

metaphorical

"De kloof tussen stad en ommeland"

— Referring specifically to the cultural divide between urban and rural areas.

De kloof tussen stad en ommeland is groter dan we dachten.

sociological

"Met hielkloven kampen"

— To suffer from cracked heels (literal medical use).

In de winter kampt zij vaak met hielkloven.

informal/medical

"De kloof in de begroting"

— The budget deficit or gap in financial planning.

De kloof in de begroting moet voor het eind van het jaar gedicht zijn.

economic

Facile à confondre

kloof vs Kloof

Both can mean a gap.

Kloof is a deep, wide chasm or social divide. Gat is a simple hole.

De kloof tussen rijk en arm vs. een gat in je sok.

kloof vs Scheur

Both imply a break.

A scheur is a crack or tear in something that was one piece. A kloof is a much larger, deeper opening.

Een scheur in de ruit vs. een kloof in de bergen.

kloof vs Afstand

Both describe separation.

Afstand is just the measure of space. Kloof implies a barrier or a deep void.

De afstand is 10 km vs. er is een emotionele kloof.

kloof vs Geul

Both are depressions in the ground.

A geul is a shallow groove or channel, often for water. A kloof is deep and steep.

Een geul in het zand vs. een kloof in de rotsen.

kloof vs Leemte

Both mean something is missing.

Leemte is a void or lack of something (like knowledge). Kloof is a separation between two existing things.

Een leemte in de wet vs. de kloof tussen partijen.

Structures de phrases

Er is een kloof tussen [A] en [B].

Er is een kloof tussen de stad en het dorp.

De [Z]-kloof wordt steeds groter.

De generatiekloof wordt steeds groter.

Het is tijd om de kloof te dichten.

Het is tijd om de kloof tussen arm en rijk te dichten.

Er gaapt een kloof tussen [concept] en [realiteit].

Er gaapt een kloof tussen de theorie en de praktijk.

De kloof werd verder uitgediept door [oorzaak].

De kloof werd verder uitgediept door de economische crisis.

De kloof overbruggen vereist [middel].

De kloof overbruggen vereist veel geduld en dialoog.

Ondanks pogingen de kloof te slechten, bleef de [onderwerp] verdeeld.

Ondanks pogingen de kloof te slechten, bleef de bevolking verdeeld.

De kloof is inherent aan [systeem/structuur].

De kloof is inherent aan het huidige politieke systeem.

Famille de mots

Noms

kloving

kloofje

generatiekloof

loonkloof

kenniskloof

Verbes

kloven (to split wood)

splijten

dichten

overbruggen

Adjectifs

gekloofd

klovig

Apparenté

ravijn

scheur

opening

verschil

afstand

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour voir tous les exemples

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

High in news and academic writing; moderate in daily conversation.

Erreurs courantes

Er zit een kloof in mijn shirt. → Er zit een gat in mijn shirt.
A 'kloof' is a massive chasm. Use 'gat' for a hole in clothing.
De kloof van de generaties. → De kloof tussen de generaties.
You must use 'tussen' (between) to show what the gap separates.
Ik zie twee kloofen. → Ik zie twee kloven.
Spelling rule: 'f' changes to 'v' in the plural.
Er is een kloof in mijn mening. → Ik heb een andere mening.
'Kloof' is used for a gap between *two* things, not within one person's single opinion.
De kloof is erg smal. → De spleet is erg smal.
A 'kloof' is by definition large. For a narrow gap, use 'spleet'.

Astuces

Plural Spelling

Remember: Kloof -> Kloven. The 'f' changes to 'v' and one 'o' is dropped to keep the vowel long in an open syllable.

Compound Words

Learn compounds like 'digitale kloof' and 'loonkloof' together as single units of meaning.

Don't Overuse

Reserve 'kloof' for big divides. For small differences, use 'verschil' or 'afstand'.

Long Vowel

Make sure the 'oo' is long. If you say it too fast, it might sound like a different word.

News Buzzword

If you hear 'de kloof' on the news, it almost always refers to social or economic inequality.

Preposition

Always use 'tussen' when you are comparing two things separated by a 'kloof'.

Polder Model

Understanding that the Dutch hate 'kloven' helps you understand their political system of consensus.

Visualizing

Visualize a canyon. If the difference you are describing feels like a canyon, use 'kloof'.

Dichten and Overbruggen

Learn these two verbs as they are the most common actions taken toward a 'kloof'.

Skin Care

If you see 'kloven' on a cream bottle at the drugstore, it's for cracked skin!

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'CLEAVE' (to split). A 'KLOOF' is what you get after you 'cleave' something in two. It's the gap left behind.

Association visuelle

Imagine a giant 'O' being split in two by the 'K' and the 'L', leaving a deep 'OO' space in the middle.

Word Web

diep tussen rijk arm dichten overbruggen ravijn maatschappij

Défi

Try to find three news articles today that use the word 'kloof' and identify whether they are talking about money, politics, or technology.

Origine du mot

Derived from the Middle Dutch word 'clove', which comes from the Old Dutch 'clova'. It is related to the Proto-Germanic root '*klub-', meaning to split or cleave.

Sens originel : A split or a crack, especially in wood or stone.

Germanic

Contexte culturel

When discussing the 'kloof tussen arm en rijk', be aware that this is a sensitive political topic in the Netherlands.

English speakers might use 'gap' or 'divide'. 'Chasm' is the closest emotional equivalent for 'kloof'.

The poem 'Het Huwelijk' by Willem Elsschot (mentions the gap between dream and deed). The term 'Kloof van de Burger' often used in Dutch political science. The South African town named 'Kloof'.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Politics

De kloof dichten
De kloof met de kiezer
Politieke verdeeldheid
Sociale ongelijkheid

Geography

Diepe kloof
Erosie
Berglandschap
Ravijn

Economy

Loonkloof
Vermogenskloof
Koopkracht
Armoedegrens

Sociology

Generatiekloof
Digitale kloof
Kenniskloof
Sociale cohesie

Personal Relationships

Een kloof tussen partners
Onbegrip
Afstand nemen
Emotionele breuk

Amorces de conversation

"Denk je dat de kloof tussen arm en rijk in jouw land groter wordt?"

"Hoe kunnen we de digitale kloof voor ouderen verkleinen?"

"Heb je wel eens een echte kloof gezien tijdens het wandelen?"

"Bestaat er een generatiekloof tussen jou en je ouders?"

"Wat is volgens jou de beste manier om de kloof tussen burger en politiek te dichten?"

Sujets d'écriture

Beschrijf een moment waarop je een kloof voelde tussen jou en iemand anders.

Is er een kloof tussen je dromen en je dagelijkse leven? Hoe kun je die dichten?

Wat zijn de gevaren van een groeiende kloof in de samenleving?

Reflecteer op de 'digitale kloof'. Hoe beïnvloedt dit de toegang tot informatie?

Schrijf over een reis waarbij je een indrukwekkende natuurlijke kloof hebt bezocht.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

It is a 'de-word', and in modern Dutch, the distinction between masculine and feminine is often blurred, but it is grammatically treated as common gender. You use 'de' and 'die/deze'.

No, for a gap in teeth, you should use 'spleetje' or simply say 'er zit ruimte tussen mijn tanden'. 'Kloof' is too large and dramatic for teeth.

The most common way is to use the compound word 'generatiekloof'. You can also say 'de kloof tussen generaties'.

'Ravijn' is almost always literal (a ravine in the mountains). 'Kloof' can be literal but is very frequently used for social and political divides.

No, 'kloven' is also a verb meaning 'to split', often used in the context of 'hout kloven' (splitting wood for a fire).

It means 'to bridge the gap' or 'to close the divide', usually in a metaphorical sense like fixing social inequality.

Yes, specifically for deep, painful cracks in dry skin, like on your heels ('hielkloven') or hands.

It is common when discussing serious topics like politics or the economy, but less common for small, everyday differences.

The English equivalent is 'the wage gap', referring to the difference in earnings between groups.

In a metaphorical sense, yes. It usually implies a problematic separation that needs to be addressed or bridged.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour les astuces et notes