Meaning
Earning a very low income.
Cultural Background
The Dutch are known for being 'zuinig' (frugal). Using this phrase is a socially acceptable way to talk about money without breaking the taboo of discussing exact salary numbers. In Flanders, the phrase is also common but might be perceived as slightly more 'Dutch' (from the North). Flemish people might also use 'Het is niet om naar huis te schrijven' (It's nothing to write home about). Fat was historically a luxury. In the winter, animal fat was essential for survival. This phrase reminds us of a time when food security was not guaranteed. With the changes in the Dutch student loan system ('leenstelsel'), this phrase has seen a resurgence in student protests and memes.
Use for Modesty
If someone asks if you are rich, even if you are doing okay, saying 'Het is geen vetpot' is a very Dutch way to stay humble.
Not for Food
Don't use this to describe a meal that isn't fatty. It's only for money/resources.
Meaning
Earning a very low income.
Use for Modesty
If someone asks if you are rich, even if you are doing okay, saying 'Het is geen vetpot' is a very Dutch way to stay humble.
Not for Food
Don't use this to describe a meal that isn't fatty. It's only for money/resources.
Combine with 'Helaas'
Adding 'helaas' (unfortunately) makes the phrase sound more natural and less like a harsh complaint.
Test Yourself
Vul het juiste woord in.
Ik vind mijn nieuwe baan leuk, maar het salaris is geen ______.
The fixed idiom is 'geen vetpot'.
Wat betekent deze zin?
'De winst van de bakkerij was vorig jaar geen vetpot.'
'Geen vetpot' means very little profit or income.
In welke situatie gebruik je 'Het is geen vetpot'?
Match de situatie.
It is used to describe a meager or disappointing amount of resources.
Maak de dialoog af.
A: Hoe is je nieuwe kamer? B: Klein, en de huur is hoog. Mijn budget is ______.
The speaker is complaining about a tight budget.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesIk vind mijn nieuwe baan leuk, maar het salaris is geen ______.
The fixed idiom is 'geen vetpot'.
'De winst van de bakkerij was vorig jaar geen vetpot.'
'Geen vetpot' means very little profit or income.
Match de situatie.
It is used to describe a meager or disappointing amount of resources.
A: Hoe is je nieuwe kamer? B: Klein, en de huur is hoog. Mijn budget is ______.
The speaker is complaining about a tight budget.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes, this is very common and sounds quite natural.
It can be risky. It's better to use more professional language in a formal review, but with a friendly boss, it might pass as a joke.
In slang, 'vet' means 'cool' (e.g., 'Dat is vet!'), but in this idiom, it retains its old meaning of 'wealth/abundance'.
Technically yes, but it's rarely used. We usually only use the negative form to complain.
Related Phrases
Op een houtje bijten
similarTo have very little to eat/no money.
Krap bij kas zitten
similarTo be short on cash.
Een rib uit mijn lijf
contrastSomething that costs a lot of money.
Binnenlopen
contrastTo make a lot of money quickly.
