Meaning
To keep something reasonable or controlled.
Cultural Background
The Dutch value 'nuchterheid' (soberness/down-to-earthness). This phrase is a linguistic manifestation of that value. In Flanders, the phrase is used similarly, but sometimes with a slightly more formal tone in business. In business, 'binnen de perken' is a polite way to tell a client that their request is too expensive or unrealistic. In academic writing, it is used to define the scope of a study.
Use 'houden' for control
If you are the one managing the situation, always use 'houden'.
Don't use for disasters
It sounds dismissive if used for serious tragedies.
Meaning
To keep something reasonable or controlled.
Use 'houden' for control
If you are the one managing the situation, always use 'houden'.
Don't use for disasters
It sounds dismissive if used for serious tragedies.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct verb.
We moeten de uitgaven binnen de perken ____.
When you are actively controlling something, use 'houden'.
Which sentence is correct?
Choose the most natural sentence.
The idiom requires the plural 'perken' and the preposition 'binnen'.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'De schade is erg groot.' B: 'Ja, maar gelukkig ____.'
This is the standard way to say the situation is still manageable.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesWe moeten de uitgaven binnen de perken ____.
When you are actively controlling something, use 'houden'.
Choose the most natural sentence.
The idiom requires the plural 'perken' and the preposition 'binnen'.
A: 'De schade is erg groot.' B: 'Ja, maar gelukkig ____.'
This is the standard way to say the situation is still manageable.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsIt is neutral and works in almost any context.
Yes, to describe their behavior, e.g., 'Hij bleef binnen de perken'.
Related Phrases
binnen de lijntjes kleuren
similarTo follow the rules.
de grenzen opzoeken
contrastTo push the limits.
onder controle houden
synonymTo keep under control.
