Significado
Being punctual for appointments.
Contexto cultural
Punctuality is a national pride. Being 5 minutes late is considered 'te laat' (too late) and usually requires a text message apology. While still valued, punctuality in Flanders can be slightly more relaxed than in the Randstad (Netherlands), often referred to as 'Bourgondisch' (Burgundian) lifestyle. In Surinamese-Dutch culture, 'Surinaamse tijd' is a well-known concept where events might start later than scheduled, though in professional settings, Dutch standards usually apply. Meetings start and end exactly on time. If you are late, you may find the door closed or be asked to explain yourself in front of the group.
The 5-minute rule
In the Netherlands, 'op tijd' actually means 5 minutes early. If you arrive exactly at the time, you are just barely on time.
Don't say 'in tijd'
This is the most common mistake for English speakers. Always use 'op'.
Significado
Being punctual for appointments.
The 5-minute rule
In the Netherlands, 'op tijd' actually means 5 minutes early. If you arrive exactly at the time, you are just barely on time.
Don't say 'in tijd'
This is the most common mistake for English speakers. Always use 'op'.
Dinner time is sacred
If you are invited for dinner, being 'op tijd' is mandatory. The Dutch eat early (usually 18:00).
Teste-se
Fill in the missing words to say 'I always arrive on time.'
Ik ___ altijd ___ ___.
The phrase is 'op tijd komen'. In a simple sentence, the verb 'kom' goes to the second position.
Which sentence is correct for 'We arrived on time yesterday'?
Gisteren...
'Komen' uses 'zijn' in the perfect tense, and the phrase is 'op tijd'.
Match the phrase variation to the situation.
1. Ruim op tijd, 2. Net op tijd, 3. Precies op tijd
'Ruim' means plenty of time, 'Net' means just barely, and 'Precies' means exactly.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Sorry dat ik te laat ben. B: Geeft niet, maar probeer de volgende keer wel ___ ___ ___.
After 'proberen', we use 'om... te' + infinitive.
🎉 Pontuação: /4
Recursos visuais
Banco de exercicios
4 exerciciosIk ___ altijd ___ ___.
The phrase is 'op tijd komen'. In a simple sentence, the verb 'kom' goes to the second position.
Gisteren...
'Komen' uses 'zijn' in the perfect tense, and the phrase is 'op tijd'.
1. Ruim op tijd, 2. Net op tijd, 3. Precies op tijd
'Ruim' means plenty of time, 'Net' means just barely, and 'Precies' means exactly.
A: Sorry dat ik te laat ben. B: Geeft niet, maar probeer de volgende keer wel ___ ___ ___.
After 'proberen', we use 'om... te' + infinitive.
🎉 Pontuação: /4
Perguntas frequentes
5 perguntasYes, they are very similar. 'Komen' emphasizes the act of arriving, while 'zijn' emphasizes being there. 'Ik kom op tijd' (I will arrive on time) vs 'Ik ben op tijd' (I am here on time).
Technically, you are 'te laat'. In a formal setting, you should apologize. In an informal setting, it's usually fine, but don't make it a habit.
Yes! 'Ik heb mijn huiswerk op tijd ingeleverd' (I handed in my homework on time).
Prepositions are often idiomatic. 'Op' suggests being 'on the mark' of the time.
Generally, yes. It is seen as a sign of respect and efficiency. Lateness is often viewed as a lack of organization.
Frases relacionadas
op tijd zijn
similarto be on time
te laat komen
contrastto arrive late
bijtijds
similarin good time / early
stipt
specialized formpunctual/exact
