Meaning
Describing the weather condition.
Cultural Background
The Dutch 'terrasje pakken' culture is entirely dependent on it being 'zonnig'. People will flock to outdoor cafes at the slightest hint of sun. Similar to the Netherlands, but often accompanied by a 'pintje' or a local beer. The phrase is identical. In Suriname, where it is often zonnig, the phrase might be used less as a conversation starter and more as a simple statement of fact, often contrasted with the heavy tropical rains. On islands like Curaçao, 'zonnig' is the default state. People might specify 'erg zonnig' to warn about the heat.
The 'G' sound
The 'g' at the end of 'zonnig' is the famous Dutch 'hard G' or 'soft G' depending on the region, but it never sounds like a 'g' in 'game'.
Don't use 'maken'
Unlike French or Spanish, Dutch never uses 'maken' (to make) for weather. Stick to 'zijn' (to be).
Meaning
Describing the weather condition.
The 'G' sound
The 'g' at the end of 'zonnig' is the famous Dutch 'hard G' or 'soft G' depending on the region, but it never sounds like a 'g' in 'game'.
Don't use 'maken'
Unlike French or Spanish, Dutch never uses 'maken' (to make) for weather. Stick to 'zijn' (to be).
Gezelligheid
Combine 'zonnig' with 'gezellig' to sound like a native: 'Wat een gezellig zonnig dagje!'
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word.
Het ___ zonnig vandaag.
We use the verb 'zijn' (to be) for weather descriptions in Dutch.
Which sentence is correct?
How do you say 'It was sunny yesterday'?
We use the past tense 'was' and the adjective 'zonnig'.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Zullen we naar het strand gaan? B: Ja! ___.
This is the most natural response to justify going to the beach.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You see the sun coming out after a long rain.
This expresses the change to sunny weather.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Weather Vocabulary
Sun
- • Zonnig
- • De zon schijnt
- • Warm
Clouds
- • Bewolkt
- • Grijs
- • Donker
Practice Bank
4 exercisesHet ___ zonnig vandaag.
We use the verb 'zijn' (to be) for weather descriptions in Dutch.
How do you say 'It was sunny yesterday'?
We use the past tense 'was' and the adjective 'zonnig'.
A: Zullen we naar het strand gaan? B: Ja! ___.
This is the most natural response to justify going to the beach.
You see the sun coming out after a long rain.
This expresses the change to sunny weather.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, but 'Het is een zonnige dag' is much more common.
It is neutral. It's used in both casual chats and formal weather reports.
The most direct opposite is 'bewolkt' (cloudy) or 'betrokken'.
When it's an adjective before a noun (e.g., 'een zonnige dag'), it usually gets an -e ending.
Only metaphorically, like 'een zonnig humeur' (a sunny mood).
No, it only refers to the sun. It can be zonnig and freezing.
Use 'heel zonnig' or 'erg zonnig'.
Yes, it is a perfect, complete sentence.
No, you say 'De zon schijnt' or 'Het is zonnig'.
'Zonnig' means the sun is out; 'helder' means the air is clear/transparent.
Related Phrases
De zon schijnt
similarThe sun is shining
Lekker weertje
similarNice little weather
Onbewolkt
specialized formCloudless
Het is warm
builds onIt is warm
Zonovergoten
specialized formSun-drenched
